Use These Hair Products For Men For Your Best Hair Day

Don’t let a bad hair day ruin your style – Use the best hair products for men to avoid the disaster.

Remember when the High Top Fade was in and hair styling products used to be just gel, mousse and hairspray? Times have changed for the better…at least when it comes to hairstyles. Now, regardless of whether or not you want to pay homage to Vanilla Ice, there are a plethora of hair products ranging from the ol’ faithful gel to things like pastes, clay to pomade. But if you’re still using the same gel that you used back in high school, you may not be using the best hair product for your hair type or hair style. So if you want to optimize how those precious locks look, you need to choose your hair product wisely. In this post, we’ll break down the overwhelming number of hair products out there so that you can minimize time spent “researching” and maximize the number of “damn my hair looks good today!” days.

Why You Should Care about Your Hair Style

The ensemble of a modern gentleman isn’t complete until he’s turned that mop on his head into something stylish and suave. And besides completing your dapper look, there is another reason – yes, you guessed it…the opposite sex cares. According to a recent survey of young women in their early 20s, 3 out 4 said that a man’s hairstyle can be a strong indicator of dating potential upon first impression. Okay, we know you might not care if a college chick thinks you have dating potential (or you may care a lot if you’re into college chicks), but nevertheless, you want to make sure you’re sending the right signals.

Take for example the two hairstyles below. What assumptions automatically come to mind about these two fellows based on their hair alone? ‘Nuff said.

Know Your Hair Type

Hold on just a second there Chief. Don’t leave this page just yet and start Googling “David Beckam’s hair” or “Best Men’s Hair Styling Products” to stock up on the latest designer waxes in order to raise your dating points. To choose the best styling product for you, it’s important to figure out something often overlooked: your hair type.

Do you know your hair type?

Choosing your hair products without knowing your hair type is a bit like buying shoes without knowing your foot size. You may get lucky and get close to a decent fit or you may end up looking like Homey the Clown. And we all have that one friend or co-worker whose appearance always seems to bring to mind a single thought, “dude REALLLYY needs a haircut”. Don’t be that dude. What’s worse, choosing the wrong product for your hair can even be damaging to your hair. For example, using an ultra-strong hold product on very fine, thin hair will not only weigh down the hair but may also damage it. While the above graphic isn’t all-encompassing and you might have some sort of combination of the hair types, it’s a good place to start. Have an idea of what’s growing out of your scalp? Good, let’s move on.

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Hair Styling Products

Once you dive deep into the rabbit hole of hair styling products, you’ll realize that the sheer number of products and interchangeable terms will make it seem like the hair industry is playing one big marketing ploy on us. Sometimes a company will use terms such as “pomade” rather liberally – it can be more like a gel product at times and a wax in others. The key to pinning down the nature of the styling product is knowing what key words to look for in the descriptions. So, we’ve done the work for you and laid out some basic hair styling terminology you should know:

GEL

Gel has enjoyed some success in the last few decades as a go-to staple (along with hair spray). In fact, it’s featured so much on the Jersey Shore, it should get its own set of credits next to The Situation and Pauly D. Though, we don’t want to stigmatize this super goo because it has both functionality and versatility, ranging from lighter to maximum hold. The gel is the modern day version of hair grease, providing that slicker, wet look with stronger holds.

Use Tip: Use on damp or dry hair. Spread evenly on fingers and top of palm and run your fingers through your hair to style. Avoid touching your hair after drying as it may break the hold and/or cause flaking.

Good for these Hair Styles:

Good for these Hair Types: Thicker hair and short-to-medium hair lengths.

POMADE

No, it’s not pomegranate flavored Kool-Aid (though we wish that flavor was available when we were young ‘uns). And if you thought it was, listen up because it doesn’t get more granddaddy than pomade. So what is it? Pomade is a greasy or waxy substance used to style hair with a wet, shiny and slick look.

Let’s take a 20 and learn some history (we’re geeks like that): the name “pomade” is derived from the French word pommade, meaning “ointment” and the Latin word for apple, pomum, because the original recipe was made with mashed apples. In the early 19th century, bear fat became the common pomade ingredient, while petroleum jelly, beeswax and even lard were later used in the early 20th century. Legendary classics such as Murray’s Superior Hair Dressing Pomade were staples in Don Draper’s era. Recently, it’s been making a comeback but under different guises—brands may label waxes or even creams, a pomade. True pomade is a blend of wax and oil (while true hair waxes will be just wax or almost all wax). Pomade can range from a light shine to a high shine, but its biggest advantage is that it’ll create a more natural, wet look. So why pomade over gel? Pomade can achieve that same strong, wet and neat look without drying out or flaking like gel.

Use Tip: Rub a little bit on your palm and style on damp or close-to-dry hair.

Good for these Hair Styles:

Good for these Hair Types: Thinner hair and wavy-to-extremely curly hair. Good for all hair lengths. If you have oily hair, avoid pomade as it will make your hair greasier.

WAX

Waxes will sometimes be considered a “matte” hair product, but the legacy of a waxes rivals pomade, and thus, warrants its own category. How does it differ from the pomade? If you’re looking for hold, wax is the way to go. Since true waxes don’t contain the oils found in pomade, they usually won’t provide that “wet” look that’s characteristic of pomade, but will generally have a stronger hold instead. If you have oily hair, wax is usually a better option as oil-based products like pomade will result in even greasier hair. To avoid clumping, be sure to warm up and evenly distribute wax on your palms before using. The last thing you want is your date staring at a clump of wax stuck in your hair – if she’s seen There’s Something About Mary, she might think it’s something else and that would be disastrous for you.

Use Tip: Wax can be used on wet or dry hair but is easier on wet hair. Warm up a small amount on the palm of your hand and distribute as needed.

MATTE PRODUCTS (Clay, Putty, Paste, Mud, Fiber, etc.)

Looking for that yeah-I-just-got-of-bed-and-yeah-I-look-this-damn-good-when-I-did look? Look no further than matte products. Matte products come in many varieties such as clay, putty, paste or fiber, but all have one defining characteristic: a dry or “matte” finish as the name suggests. Matte products provide a pliable hold while adding texture to your hair without that wet shine. This makes it the perfect candidate for those messy, tousled hairstyles.

Use Tip: Rub a small amount on your palm and apply to damp-to-close-to-dry hair.

Good for these Hair Styles:

Good for these Hair Types :Thin-to-thicker hair, wavy hair and all hair lengths.

STYLING CREAMS

Styling creams are probably the least recognized hair product, therefore, probably aren’t starters in most morning lineups. It can make some clutch appearances though, especially when you need to really tame that out-of-control “bed-head” look after a boozy night. Styling creams will usually come in the form of a soft, opaque wax, and as a result, be less “clumpy” and generally be much lighter (relative to wax) when it comes to hold. So it’s a great option for those looking for that subtle control while looking like you have nothing in your hair.

Use Tip: Rub a small amount on your hands and apply as needed. If you want to get fancy, you can use it as a finishing product after your main product (wax, pomade, etc.).

Good for these Hair Styles:

Good for these Hair Types: Thin-to-thicker hair, wavy/curly hair and all hair lengths

MOUSSE

Looking to add some volume to your thinner hair? Or maybe some 80’s nostalgia? Hair mousse, while waning in the popularity among other men’s hair products, is still an effective option for those looking to add that fuller appearance to their hair. It’s foamy and will coat the hair strand with polymers that’ll give it that extra volume.

Use Tip: Shake the bottle and dispense a small amount in one hand and apply with both hands to dry hair. Blow dry after application for max hold.

Finishing Products:

Finishing products are supplementary hair products you apply after you’ve already styled your hair. If you want full control over how every strand of hair looks, finishing products are good for holding those minor details in place.

HAIR SPRAY

While hair spray has lost some of its “cool” over the last few decades, it is by no means extinct. In fact, many stylists and grooming experts tout hair spray as one of the best ways to finish any style, as long as it’s used in moderation. Applying a quick mist of hair spray after you’re done styling can lock in your look nicely for the day. Remember, you want to avoid turning your head of hair into a hockey helmet-shaped fire hazard, so go easy on the application.

Use Tip: Use sparingly. Spray from about 8 – 12 inches from hair until your hair is covered in a fine mist.

Good for these Hair Styles:

Good for these Hair Types: All types, especially thinner hair that’s likely to be weighed down by heavier products.

HAIR CLIPPERS

Has reading this far got you thinking, “F*CK ALL THAT NOISE!”? Yeah, well here’s your solution. Get yourself an electronic hair clipper, set it on 0 and go straight to town. No more bad hair cuts, bad hair days, or spending coin for hair products. Freedom baby, freedom.

Your new-found knowledge of hair products got you feeling you a bit “metro”? We figured it may…but you can fix that – just grab a bottle of Jame-O and take a big swig to remind yourself how manly you are. More importantly, you can’t control how much hair you have, how that hair grows or what type of hair it is, but you do have full control over what you do with it. Given how often people will look at your noggin, take the time to do your hair some justice. Turned off by the cost of the products? Skip a couple rounds of espresso at Starbucks and upgrade your hair styling getup to something a little more appropriate for your hair type. Add a little more texture to your style, a little more pliability, a little more of that wet or matte look and give the ladies that well-groomed, well-dressed gent that they want a firm hold on.

Hi, I’ve got fairly curly/wavy hair that gets a bit chaotic if not “handled”, and am going for a well-groomed look (think Cooper in Limitless). Have been using Wella Rugged Mix recently, but it feels too much like applying glue to my hair (both in how the hair feels and how I feel a need to thoroughly wash my hands). It “tames” the waves, but too well in that it looks stiff.

Hi. I have thin straight hair and it’s very hard for me to find any hair product that can let me set my hair properly before hair spraying it. I’m trying to spike it up a little but the amount of hairspray I use makes it gunky. Is there something I could use?

I’ve got really thick straight (Asian) hair that I’m trying to grow long and sweep back. So far I’ve been using thick gel but it doesn’t really hold. Would appreciate your advice on what I could get for this?

I have fairly long (8-10 inches) dark frizzy hair, which sometimes sticks together making nice long curls but it’s mostly just frizz, do you have any product suggestions with a weak to medium hold so that I can prevent the frizz whilst also keeping my hair soft and not tough like many previous putty’s and fibre-creams have

I have long thick wavy hair on top and short on back and sides. It’s got plenty of volume. Looking for a product to hold it but I want it so that I can run my hands through it as well and I don’t want something that makes it tough. What would you recommend?

Hi. Learned a lot from this article. I have thin and straight hair and am looking for products that are easy to apply and will keep my hair the same throughout the day even when I’m doing sports. Any recommendations? I’m sort of trying to spike up my hair at the top.

Glad you got a lot out of this piece, Jonas. If you’re looking for that extra level of hold to keep that style intact through sweat or humidity, we recommend adding a few layers of a strong hold hair spray after applying your usual styling product.

Hey what can you recommend me. I am male and i have thin, fine, dry and curly hair. The length is medium to short. The best product that does not make the hair more broken in order not to get more hair loss. : D
Best regards

I have short to medium length, wavy hair and I like the “wet” look so I tend to use gels that have a superfirm hold, however, they always seem to leave an oily shine on my forehead as well. PLEASE help me find a product that will give me a firm, wet look, without the problem of having to wash the shiny sheen off my forehead 20 times a day. Thanks so much!!

Help me out! I have extremely thick hair that is medium length on top and short on the sides. I want a matte look, but all the clays and waxes I have tried sim
0ply don’t have the hold to keep my stubborn hair the way I want it. Any suggestions?

I have thick straight hair and I want a kind of messy wavy quiff look, I have tried lots of products but just can’t seem to find one that lasts throughout the day while keeping that natural look
Cheers

I have short to medium length fairly tight curled hair on top with short sides.
It gets really dry and frizzed
Was wondering if there is anything that will moisturise my hair and give a messy look without a shine, and perhaps loosen my tight curls a bit and create a more wavy look

I have thick and straight hairs and big forehead,my hairs are medium at top and short at side which style and hair creame should i use?i dont want that after styling my hair start looking even thicker…

I have very thick straight hair and am growing it out, I have been using uppercut deluxe pomade but the hard shiny style isn’t working with my length anymore. I was thinking about trying a cream but am unsure of where to start. My hair is pretty dry but I still don’t want it to be too greasy and am not a fan of the rock hard hair either. It would be awesome to be able to wear a beanie for about 10 minutes without ruining my look either. So if there is something that would allow me to fix it relatively quickly that would be awesome. I am going for longer hair but right now it it around 5-6 inches on top and 2-3 inches on the sides.

Hi. I hope you can help me. I have thin curly/wavy hair. It’s about 4 to 6 inches long and I am growing it out long. I like to just run my hands through my hair having it pushed back. Not grease but not dry either. What would you suggest I use? Soft water polmaide from Baxter?

I am looking for a product that is matte/zero to no shine. A drier look. I have medium (i guess 2.5) textured cut hair. It’s sorta thinning but not very noticeable (back, so not that big of a deal), but because of this i do the whole rogaine thing before hand. I am pretty sure it’s making my hair, which is normally pretty cowlicky, to a very curly texture. I like my hair messy, not in the ‘i made this look intentional’, but like this http://www.menshairstyletrends.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Messy-Short-Hair-for-Men-Clement-Chabernaud.jpg. messy, matte, dirty, some hold, not any crunch. For reference i used to use AG welding paste, but they changed their formula (flakes), and the same goes for Kevin Murphy’s Dirty Business (took out the grit). I use Wella Sea salt when it’s shorter and sometimes as a base. I generally like the pastes and creams, as long as there is some medium-ish hold. Clays tend to drag it down or separate, but i am a go if you have any new recs. I am going to try Kevin’s Free Hold, but would LOVE some other suggestions. thank!!!!

I have very thick dark brown hair. It gets oily after a few days of no wash. But once washed it’s dry and has a lot of frizz hairs standing up. Currently it’s a 2 on the sides and a little longer on the top. I need a product that has a small amount of shine but isn’t hard to the touch like gel. I also need it to be stiff enough to hold down frizzy’s and keep the front styled up like a Caesars style hair cut. Please help.

Hey Tyler, if you’re having issues with frizz, a few minutes of blow drying with a comb will straighten out most of your hair at which you can apply your desired styling product to freeze your desired look.

I have thin/fine to medium thick hair. I’m growing it out and want a semi-wet look that doesn’t have a “crispy/hard” look or feel. Something that I can move throughout the day but won’t have my hair flying in loose strands all over the place. Right now I use an AXE product but it always loses most of its hold by the end of the day and I have those loose hair everywhere. What are your best suggestions? Thanks in advance!

Help me out? I have very thick hair that is medium length on the top and buzzed on the sides. I am looking for a matte product that will hold it in place but won’t clump together and make my hair even thicker by the end of the day. Any suggestions? Thanks

I’m an African American male with short curly hair and I have tried so many products to maintain my curls. I’ve been using shea moisture products but they have so many products I’m not sure which ones to use. They have creams, sprays and lotions but I still haven’t found the right combination. My main issue is that I need something to use daily because when I wake up the sides of my hair are flat from laying on them so I need something to fluff those curls out.

Moisture is the key for African-American men’s hair, so you’re on the right track. Frederick Benjamin makes products specifically with African-American men in mind. If you keep your hair cropped short, try their water-based Sleek Water Pomade. If your wear your hear a little longer, try their Daily Hydrator Styling Creme.

As long as you use conditioner regularly but don’t shampoo too often you hair will retain moisture and you’ll have an easy time styling in the morning.

I have been using Hanz de Fuko Claymation for last few months and it suits my hair perfectly. I have long thin hair and this gives me matte look with volume and decent hold. But recently for some unknown reason they stopped shipping to my country and if I buy from a third party its coming out to be really expensive so I tried to look for other alternatives. Right now the decent alternative I could find in my budget is Sebastian Clay Craft. Just want to know if it works the same as claymation or not from some one who has tried both. Thanks

Hey there, first off great and super detailed article!
I’ve been using “Unite Wicked Wax Defining Brilliante” for years and they’ve recently stopped producing it so I’m looking for a new product.
I’ve got light brown/dirty blonde thick dry hair that I keep medium/long on top and short on the sides.
I am looking for a product that adds some shine and picks up blonde highlights but also has a lasting hold that I can mold and play with the whole day without feeling like I need to wash my hands afterwards.
Thank you in advance!

Hello, I have Straight Medium Length Thin Hairs with bilateral temporal thinning. What Style would you recommend me? Also I like in a hot zone which leads to a lot of sweating.What products should I buy?
Sorry if I am repeating the Question.
Thanks.

Hi, i have tried many hair products but cannot find one that works with my hair type. My hair is fine but thick and is straight. I have it short on the sides and want it standing up on top, kinda like the classic undercut look if possible. its medium length on top i guess, maybe 3 inches. Can you help me with a good hair product please?

Hi! I really liked the site, though i’m a little bit still confused about how to choose a good product. I have medium/short lenght hair, that’s quite thick and wavy. Its short on both sides, longer on top. Ive already tried gel, wax and creams but the last two made it greasy. I’m looking for something thats drier and can pick up the fight against my hair. Any suggestions?:)

Zerin, it really depends on your hair type and the result you’re going for. For example, if you’re going for a natural look, you may opt for a product with a matte finish, while a classic pomade might be a better fit for a wet look like a pomp.

Hey, could you help me with my hair?
I have light hair, medium hair density and wavy. They already have a lot of volume and curles/waves don’t soothe or relax. I need a product with strong hold ( restyling capability, if possible) for 5 inches( or a bit more longer) lenth, something similar to wax.
The wax doesn’t work that well but was easy to wash out( and not unhealthy for long time use) . can i get any suggestions?
Thanks

help me out man.
I’ve just checked, I have thin and fine hair.
I’ve just got a haircut of a side undercut and a tapered back.
I have a fringe touching my nose. I’ve tried gatsby moving rubber, styling pastes and lay rite cement clay which everyone claims is the strongest hold. and I style my hair upwards, everytime after I’ve styled and sprayed a fair amount of hairspray, after sweating a little bit my hair goes flat and when I try combing it back up it looks ridiculous.
any advices on styling and also hair products ?
thanks guys appreciate it a lot
I’m asian and my hair is naturally straight

I have used TIGI Bed Head Mega Whipped Marshmallow Hair Texturizer Unisex Styler for years and now they do not manufacture it any longer. Directions: Whip into dry hair for light texture with a flexible hold. Rub between fingertips and run throughout longer layers for piecey style definition. Any ideas of a replacement for this product?

What you want is to use some kind of pomade because its easy to comb through and gives you some shine. Some good products would be like Imperials classic if you want to be able to wash the product out in the shower, or some Layrite. For a more traditional look you might use Murray’s super light(I have really fine hair too and this stuff isn’t very hard on soft hair) but you can’t wash it out with only one rinse, it takes a while.

Hello,
I have fairly thick hair and a bad cowlick on the front right side of my forehead that grows out like a palm tree when it gets longer. I just got a buzzed 2 on the sides and scissor cut the top kind of short and am styling it in the front to be spiked and waved leaning towards one side sort of. I don’t want a sticky look to the styled front part of my hair. Do you have any other styling ideas for my hair? And for what I currently have, what type of product do you recommend and what brand?

Hey Zachary, guys ask this question all the time, and as much as we’d like to give an easy answer, your local barber or stylist will do a much better job at suggesting new styles for your hair type and desired look than we can within the confines of these comments.

Hey, I’m currently using got2b hair wax but the hold is not that strong. I’ve got very oily, thin and short hair. I have a similar to the right hair style: https://blacklapel.com/thecompass/ (top – sideways, fading sides) but not as much volume. I just ordered the TGIF Matte seperation wax so my question is – is it going to get the job done (also is it a good choice, since I read that you don’t usually use hair wax on thin hair, but this is more of a cream) and how can I increase the volume of my hair? Cheers.

I have thin, very straight hair, and I have short-medium hair length. I like to style my hair very normally(just flatten out the sides and raise up the top), but I might want to use something other than my control cream. So far, it has worked fine but I just want to see if there is anything better out there. I also do NOT want my hair to look wet or look like any product is in it. What should I use?

I have poker straight, longish hair and style it in a manner similar to Robert Downey Jr. (i.e, wavy). I like a matte finish.

I have been using Gatsby and Architex matte products but they are too gunky. I need a matte product strong enough to create waves in my very straight hair but still natural/light enough to not be so gunky.

Glad you enjoyed the article, Monty! Depending on your hair type and desired finish a lot of products may work, but if you’re going for a bit of height up front, we’d suggest something with a stronger hold like Gatsby’s Moving Rubber Wax!

I have a black, straight hair and in the stage of hair loss/thinning due to oily scalp. Which product should I use if I want to do a back-comb style (Not the flat, wet ones but something similar to David Beckman’s matte hairstyle, something with volume) ?

Ok So I have fairly long hair, very wavy and comes out at the sides. My hair is a very light brown with a lot of blonde mixed in. It looks a little bushy or “winged” on both sides and comes over the front of my head. I have a pretty deep hairline and whenever i go outside the wind practically takes my hair with it and then suddenly I go from 17 year old boy to a 47 year old man. I honestly love my hair but it is so damn light that whenever I go outside I find myself matting it down constantly. What should I use to thicken and and make my hair not as light? I don’t use any product in my hair and I honestly don’t like the idea of it but I am curious to try it. I want something that wont give my hair any shine or anything that would “gunk” up my hair. Any suggestions?

I have thick hair with sort of a cowlick or curly hair in the front only. I keep my hair long on the top and very short on the sides and I like to part it to one side. Do you recommend a very strong hold product that will straighten out my curly hair in the front straight so that I can comb it over without any curls in the front? Thank you!

I want a really strong hold as I want my hair straight and spike. I have used Dax red, but it has changed recently and doesn’t hold the same anymore. My hair is thick and naturally curly but to get it straight I need something strong. What can you recommend? Thanks.

I have very thin hair. I wear it short on the sides and a little longer on top. Usually just comb it to the side and back. I like my hair to dry after I shower so it looks fuller. I sometimes blow dry it but that tends to make my hair course/frizzy…especially in the colder months. I’ve tried A TON of hair products. Most recently Tea Tree Shaping Cream, American Crew Forming Creme and Mitch Reform. The forming cream was too goopy and when I used it (even on dry hair) it made my hair look wet and therefore thinner. The Tea Tree Shaping Cream was difficult to style on dry hair. I couldn’t get it to do what I wanted.

I’m looking for something that is light that I can use after my hair dries. Something that allows me to style it. It also needs to have a decent hold cause the front falls down if it doesn’t.

I’ve got thicker wavy hair, but not extremely safely, cut short and I usually try to style it into the more recent clean cut/undercut look that’s popped up over the past few years. I use cream sometimes, but the gold isn’t great and pomade makes my hair greasy. Can you recommend a brand of wax or putty/clay that you think would help me out?

I have longer hair (like the thin fine in your major men hair examples) and kind of the same form. In addition my hair is a little bit more oily I would say. So I won’t be able to use Pomade right? I’m using a creme paste in the morning right now but I’m not so happy with it to be honest. What would you suggest me to use?

Hi. I have very wavy hair and it has been growing for about two months now and is starting to bush out at the sides. It also looks unruly and unkempt when I’ve used my Redken grip tight holding gel. That is only medium control and I think I need to try out something that will hold my hair better. I want to be able to slick my hair back to the right at the part and have a wet look when I brush it back. Also something to keep my sides down would be good. When I want to have a dry look I use my Garnier paste. Just looking for suggestions that will help me get the look I want.

Hey,i have stg that need to ask for opinions. My hair is like thin n straight like. idk which hair wax is the best for my hair to do those hairsyle like pompadour or messy bed hairstyle. May i know which product is suitable for me?

I have very thick hair that grows very fast and after washing turn out looking really dry and sort of like a straw hat. I’d like to keep in in control, but not wet-looking. Thinking of using the styling creams, but not sure especially as I’ve never used any hair products. Thanks for the guide!

A styling cream could work, but given your thick, longer hair, it may not deliver on the hold, depending on how much hold you’re looking for. In addition, if you’re looking for something a bit more matte, you may want to opt for a more matte product like TiGi’s Matte Separation or Baxter’s Clay Pomade. Both will help control your hair with a fair amount of hold while keeping your hair looking too oily. Hope this helps!

I am an african american male with short hair(2-3in). Hair is nappy curly. Would like to have that will smith style, shine and curly, faded on the sides but longer on the top. Whats the best product for that?
Thanks

Hi, I’ve got fine/thin, but medium thickness straight blonde hair. I wear it short to medium length, anywhere from half an inch to 1.5 inches on the sides and back, and 2-3.5 inches on the top, always slightly longer in the front than on the top. I’ve used American Crew Forming Cream, AC Fiber, and Redken Get Groomed. I like the forming cream for a more formal, refined parted combover look, but what would you recommend for a less shiny, more casual parted hairstyle? I’d like it to hold its general shape and not sink down in front or get out of whack, but still have a little pliability or natural movement. What do you recommend?

I have mastered how to do a pompadour but I can’t get it looking anything like in the pic? I use suavecito pomade and a comb (no blowdryer cause it damages hair) however I get very little volume and the quiff is really tough to shape.

Hello, I have short to medium black thicker dry course hair .I currently have groom and clean but smells awful. Looking for something that would just keep my frizzies down because I have a lot . Don’t care too much about hold but just want my frizzies to go down. Anything you would recommend? Maybe A little bit of a wet look and one for a matte look and something that smells good please. Thank you

Hi, I have short curly/nappy hair. I HATE IT because I can’t tame it & it gets so frizzy & nappy when it continues to grow. I want a comb over look but I’d rather have my curls straitened out & held onto place with it getting frizzy. It’s tough because the curls start coming when my hair dries after a shower. Is this possible? I’m Brazilian but have African American nappy hair. Can I please have tips of what products to purchase? I’m thinking a water based pompade? Also, can I purchase these products at Walmart for example?

Hey, this is a great article. I just started doing my fiance’s hair everyday and I am very new to styling men’s hair and this really helped.
But I was wondering if you could help me find the right product exactly. He has medium thick hair, but it’s really fluffy and light and kinda sticks out everywhere and he wants a dry look that’ll keep is hair nicely styled up (think 1920’s military hair) that won’t move an inch all day while he’s constantly moving for work.
Any suggestions? Thanks!

Please advice me a similiar or better hair product (prefering mate look, less shine no, no wetlook) good boost/ volume. (Leightweight), or my hair will be Flat, after short time, as I experienced with wax by vilain golddiger or ID Titanium.

I have very thick coarse hair and it’s really difficult to deal with. I’ve never really bothered with hair product but you can only pretend not to care for too long haha, I’ve decided I want to fix it.

I generally keep my fringe in a quiff with the hair behind it cut to a lower, medium length. My hair looks its best when it’s really wet but once it dries out it gets extremely frizzy, the shorter hairs stand up and the quiff majorly loses its definition.

Could you suggest any combination of products to a) remove the frizz and maintain a level of moisture, b) bring out the waviness in my stupidly thick hair.

Please advice me a similiar or better hair product (prefering mate look, less shine no, wet) good boost/ volume. (Leightweight), or my hair will be Flat, after short timer, as I experienced with wax by vilain golddiger or ID Titanium.

I got thin / fine blond hair. My hair style is at the moment a kind of undercut(9 mm sides, 7-8 cm topfront, 3-4 cm back of top) I usally used syoss extreme Paste and syoss hairspray max hold for finish. Extreme paste will not produced Anemone. Please gimme some advices for a similiar Or better product, which gives strong hold for my thin hair.

I.E. I once tested by vilain goldigger wax, my hair falls down and look oily with this wax.
Please See below a a picture of my hair (styled and without extreme paste syoss)

I’m having trouble choosing a hair product (and, to a further extent, hair style) for my hair. I have healthy black hair reaching all the way to my chin, and I’m wondering what sort of hair product is best for me. I’ve tried pomade, and whist it gives me the hold I require, I’m not a fan at all of the grease. I’ve considered clay pomade (Baxter clay pomade vs hanz de fuko claymation) but I’m not sure if it’s right for my hair length. I’m not looking for tips to cut my hair, just style it. Any tips?

PS. Whilst I’ve tried loose hairstyles and succeeded to an extent, I’m returning to education soon and so preferably one that keeps my hair out of my face would be optimal. Thanks.

Have you considered pulling your hair back? A slicked-back look might be a solid option if you’re going for a more put-together look. As for product, either of those products you’ve mentioned would work for this style.

Please help me out. My hair is pretty long to the point my bangs is lower than my eyes. How i style is i use Pomade (axe pomade) use a comb and put it slick back while using a blow dryer and i put hair spray after. My problem i can’t seem to keep it up eventually it keeps going down, should i use wax? also i need something that will keep my hair up with the style i want even while playing basketball or anything i’m doing. I’ve been having this problem hope you can help me out thanks.

Hey JE, first off, you’re expecting too much from these hair products. There is a reason why you won’t see many NBA players rocking perfectly styled Pompadours on the court. Once you start sweating, most hair products will undoubtedly start to lose their hold, whether it be wax or gel or pomade. If you’re looking for a stronger pomade, we recommend Imperial Barber’s Classic Pomade or Layrite’s pomades. They’re going to hold a lot better than your average pomade on the market.

Thanks for the feedback but had a follow-up question. Since my hair is sort of receding from the front toward the back, I had heard pomades typically block pores and can even cause MORE hair loss….Pomades tend to wear hair down and unfortunately I wasn’t blessed with hair that falls perfectly into place. I have to work at it. I sometimes blow my hair down close to completely dry before I add a product but wanted to get your thoughts on pomades for people again like myself that need a good hold but also something that weight your hair down…The light pomades don’t hold worth a hoot, unfortunately and come across more greasy. I need a medium to high hold product. I’ve used Crew Forming Paste and High Life Medium Pomade but this one is a wax/oil based product and I think you said water-based are much better for me…

It sounds like pomades are not working out for you. Have you explored waxes at all? If you’re going for a non-greasy, high-hold product, TiGi’s Matte Separation is a fine option. Just a small dollop can go a long way in terms of hold, especially if you have delicate hair.

Hey….Read a bunch of comments below but I feel like I’m the only one with a receding hair line on the planet…Im receding from the front back and Im 47 years old…I have a VERY short buzz cut on the sides and back and longer on top and I want to use a Pomade because I like the clean slick look…There is nothing on Google that I could find that suggests pomades are good or bad for guys with a receding hairline so I really have not idea…I have a water based pomade and an oil base with medium hold…I part my hair down the side now but use to have a reverse Caesar cut for MANY years (hair combed forward with fingers and bangs flipped up)but liked the classic part down the side look….So, my questions are a.) can I use a pomade or do you suggest a paste or something more with a matte finish and b.) would you suggest I blow it almost completely dry BEFORE I put the product in as some pomades can weigh your hair down…and c.) which pomade or hair product would you recommend for someone like me?

Hey David, don’t worry you’re not alone! We definitely have our share of gents at BL who share your struggle, if you can even call it that. A water based pomade is going to be ideal here if you want that clean, slicked back look. Apply on damp hair. Check out Soft Water Pomade for something lighter, or Layrite’s Pomades if you’re looking for something with more hold strength. Hope that helps!

Hey i have short color treated (blue) fairly thick hair and i was wondering if it’s good to change how i part it? I just tried it in the mirror and i kind of like it. my hair looks much longer and bang-y when i part it to the left. I have always parted to the right but i think parting it left makes it alot easier to control my thick slightly wavy hair:P

Hi, i have thick, wavy ( bit curly kind ) hair. I find it hard to set. But i would like Mainstream Hipster hairstyle. Should i go for wax or pomade, and also apply it wet or dry.
Will the Undercut hairstyle suit me??

Mainstream Hipster? – that calls for a Oxymoron branded high shine matte hair wax gel. 😉 All jokes aside, we’d probably go with Imperial Barber’s Classic Pomade here, applied to slightly damp hair. Thick and wavy hair styles can work with undercut styles, but you just have to make sure the product is strong enough in the hold department to keep it in place.

Hi i have wavy/curly hair and it is really thick. I’d like to style it back but not slick back, I wish to keep my waves and curls in place as my hair goes back and i am growing just the top out so it falls back with the sides a .5 cut. I currently use baxter cream pomade for the top and it does the job but it doesnt give me the hold that i want to bring the back corners in. That part just seems to fall or stick out all the time. I’m looking for a wet sorta look also; so if you can recommend me a styling product also a leave in conditioner i could use for right when i get out of the shower it would be much appreciated!

Hi i was wondering if you can help me choose a product i currently use baxter pomade and i have curly/wavy not too oily hair and i would like to have my hair go back and keep its wave/curl so it curls back. I want a really good hold and i’m looking for a a shiny look. Thanks for the help!

I should also add that I’ve been using baxters pomade for a a couple years and i love it but it doesnt give me that hold that i want… If there was a product just like the baxters pomade + a good hold that will help so much more!

Hey I have really thick hair and I wash my hair everyday but with shampoo once every week, shampoo makes my hair dull and lifeless and I find post 3rd/4th day after wash it looks best and is much easier to manage because the natural oils have set in, I want to know which product is best at replicating what those oils do so i can get that 3rd day look right after i shampoo??

Hassan, are you using a conditioner? Try using a moisturizing shampoo, coupled with a conditioner. This should revitalize your hair and keep those locks looking lively while not having to sacrifice hygiene to do so.

Hey I have thick wavy black hair. I’m wondering which type of hair products work best for a slicked back look with height at the front? And another thing, I currently use a high hold gel, a problem I have is when I comb my hair it stays in place but slowly begins to wave up all over the place. Not sure if I just need to leave my hair less damp or need something with more hold.

Ive used wax, gel, pomade, matt, glue, mostly everything and its still no giving me the dry wavey look.. Basically trying to get the quiff look thats strong but not noticeable to see the product.. Atm a go between gel to pomade hold from sallys hair salon..its no bad but to tuff in the hair..need asap help

I also wanted to add that I want strong hold with a matte finish that goes up. I have thick hair and isnt straight but I do use a Straightener, is there anything else I can use or do to achieve this? Heat protector a straightening hair treatment.

Hey Tarik, great question – if you have oily thick hair, it can get difficult to manage, but just follow those steps you listed–make sure to shower, blow-dry your hair on high heat with a comb then apply your desired product. Making sure your hair is dry of oil is an important step to ensure that the style is captured when you apply the product as oily hair and products don’t normally mix well.

Hi, I have thick hair and am looking for something with a good hold and no shine to give a textured voluminous natural look. Should I go for Tigi Bed Head for men matte seperation wax or Lock Stock and Barrel mentioned above. THank you

I noticed that products like TIGI Matte Separation Wax .Hanz de Fuko Claymation have a hard time washing only with water. If I use these products every day, should I use shampoo also every day(that seems like the oily way to get the products really well out of my hair). I’m asking because I’ve read that washing hair daily with shampoo isn’t healthy.

If you’re going to opt for the stronger waxes or clays, a light shampoo to fully remove the product isn’t going to damage your hair. However, if you’re really worried about stripping the oils from your hair, you can opt for a much lighter product like a water based pomade.

Hello there, I have tried so many products and really need your help. I have thin Asian hair that always falls flat on my face. I purchased many products including hanz de fuko quick sand, which did not hold my hair at all. The only product that really works is got2be gel but it gives that crunchy look I do not like. Is there anything that will actually hold my hair and look good because my hair isn’t held easily by product? Thanks!

Hey David, check out Gatsby’s Moving Rubber. It’s made by a Japanese company so it’s specifically designed for Asian hair types. It’s a malleable wax so it’s won’t stiffen up or result in that “crunchy look” that gels tend to create.

I have dry texture, medium thickness, blonde hair that’s starting to have very light grey coming in. My style is roughly parted on the site with the longer portion combed over to the other side used my hands.

I’ve tried numerous products from numerous brands with varying success, but the main issue is that most are too greasy and darken my lighter colored hair.

It seems like the best products have a lose hold with a matte texture to tame the dryness, but I need something that doesn’t give my hair that wet or greasy appearance. Halp?

Hey. I have moderately wavy hairs which tend to get very dry after a while. After it gets dry, the volume increases by about the right amount but few ends of the hair tend to go haywire ie, out of the mould. I’m wish to get a undercut hairstyle with a matte finish and my main concern is the wavy nature of the hair. Which kind of hair product would you recommend to get a straight and matte finsh?

Wavy hair gets tricky, but a strong hold product should keep it in place and straightened for the most part. Layrite Cement Matte Clay is a fine option for this. With semi-wavy hair types, the best option for straighter styles is to cut it shorter as the waviness becomes more pronounced as your hair grows out.

I have decently thick hair and plenty of length, I generally go for a hard comb over / slick back kind of style, I’ve been using a shaping cream after my hair dries from the shower, finished with hairspray on top. without the hairspray it doesn’t hold long at all and with it sometimes it weighs it down and the slick back fails. To where it’s just a plain combover. Would a wax work better for my hair? as it seems too thick for just cream but not thick enough for hairspray. What would you suggest?

Hi, my hair is thin and quite oily. My goal is to have the style called “slicked back undercut”. My hair has the length but I have tried a number of brands and different types of gels, pommades, and waxes but nothing seems to hold it in place, it always falls to the side and looks bad. What do you suggest? Thank you

Hi. I have thin, light and fluffy hair. I have an amazing hair line on left but not much on right. My hair style is spikes bent little bit towards right. I have short to medium black hair. Please suggest me some product. I don’t have too much hair volume and not too less either. Gel make my hair stick, dry and just bad when I apply it to dry hair. Apply get to slightly wet hair make my hair stick and lose volume and after sometime, outta shape. I have tried loreal professionals homme 3 sculpe sculpting fiber paste….. Thing. It’s too week for my hair and cannot hold my hair for more than an hour. I really like wella professionas rugged fix dry matte modeling creme. It holds my hair pretty well. I don’t lose volume . It’s the best among what I have tried so far. The downside of it Is, it lasts for a few hours and gives a matte finish. I’m looking for something like wella but with stronger hold, obviously something that won’t cause loss of volume and more wet look. Help is highly appreciated.

I loved this article and looking for some advice. I have medium (around 4 inches long) thick wavy hair. I typically keep my hair pushed back but don’t want it flat on my head. I frequently run my hands through my hair so need to keep it flexible to put back into place. By the end of the day I frequently end up with stray hairs all over the place. What type of product should I be looking towards?

All Kpop star jokes aside, it looks like Mr. Sehun over there is rocking a matte look with plenty of hair spray. We’d recommend a strong hold matte product like TiGi’s Matte Separation finished with a strong hold hair spray to lock in the style.

Hey, so I’ve got really thin, naturally greasy hair. Cow-licks make it hard to style, and anything that actually works makes it look too greasy.
I like to keep it pushed to the side/back. Suggestions?? thanks!

Hello, i’m a 17 years old spanish boy that I have a thin straight hair and i want to get that haircut: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pco_7fpfz1I
What can i use? I tried redken maneuver wax but my hair falls backdown.
Also, i don’t like a wet style o greasy and i want a non-shiny finish, and if is possible easy to remove with water.
Could you help me? Thanks!
PD:I tried my best at writing ahahahah

Raul, we appreciate the effort in writing! Always humbling to see such a global audience of readers! Give TiGi’s Matte Separation a shot, it’s similar to Redken’s Maneuver Wax, but stronger in terms of hold.

Hi Black Lapel,
it’s quite amazing how great you guys are at responding. I have thick and extremely straight hair. I wake up naturally with my hair standing and spiked. However I want to have a comb over or even a slick back to have a more mature clean look. It doesn’t seem like my hair bends much and it just wouldn’t listen when I try to slick it with other products. Are there any recommendations ??

Thanks Jay. We’re grateful for all the comments and questions, especially when it deals with topics we’re passionate about! It sounds like your hair just might not be long enough to comb down. Try growing it out a bit, the weight of the hair will naturally make it easier to bend and fall on itself.

Hey Black Lapel. I have very thick curly hair (Black-Mix). I use a EcoStyler Olive oil gel. It works great, but I don’t like how it looks at the end of the day – leaving my hair dry and flaky. Is there any product you recommend that can maintain the fresh out the shower “look” while maintaining a great hold for the rest of the day?. I’ve used Got2B spike gel, which worked great, but I have to use a large amount to maintain my style.

It’s good to see that you guys are active on comment.
Okay. I have medium weak, thin and bit silky hairs. I have hair falling and dandruff problem even if I use anti-dandruff shampoo after one day dandruff starts coming back. Please recommend me some product to come over this and to make my hairs look good. I don’t use any kind of hair product currently.
I take shower everyday but shampoo only twice a week, Is this reason I have little bit of dandruff?

I have thin, flat, but a full head of hair. My hair naturally lays forward. I really want this look in the link below. I have tried Imperial Barbe but it gets too crunchy, hairline shaper but it’s too sticky and doesn’t allow me to manipulate my hair back it sort of stands my hair up spiky, and I tried aveda grooming clay which has worked the best allowing me to get the hair back while having a light natural hold. Only problem is the hold is weak. Any product you suggest I try that will give me the workability of aveda grooming clay but with a stronger hold? Thanks on advance, love this website!

I have poker straight hair, clippered at sides and short to medium length on top, tend to wear it messy up or swept back. I’ve used loads of products but never get right one, hairdresser uses 3 products, paul mitchell glaze, then spray wax then paul mitchell reformer, it’s ok for a few days, then as it grows, hair falls, tend to find creams have no holding power, have gone back to paul mitchell dry wax which is ok, trying to just use one product that will do the job, any recommendations? like a matte finish, but hold is important, have used sebastian xtah original in past which is ok but still hair starts to fall.

I’ve tried wax (got2b) , fibers (american crew and Got2b), and gels and none of them, even the ones with “high hold” have any hold with my heavy cowlicks.

My favorite product that has even remotely worked is oil-based pomades, but they have a hold that dies after about an hour. Should I just straighten my hair or should I continue to try different products? It just seems like my hair is so different than everyone else’s on YouTube and stuff, all the good products that work for them fail on me.

I’m a teen with thin/fine, straight hair, slightly only. Looking for a product that can add volume and thickness with a good hold without making my hair look greasy.
I’m going for the textured fringe look. Any recommendations?

I’m a guy with fine blonde hair. I hate to admit it but I kind of have that Justin Bieber hair style (the old one that is combed to the side) but because of my fine and dry hair, it doesn’t look that good. Is there anything that would give me that sweet spot of having soft, comfortable hair while being volumized and easy to apply and gentle to my hair?

What products do you recommend I should use? (Preferably a wax product that holds quite strongly, lasts longer and is ‘safe’ if possible. Otherwise just any product that gives a matte look and holds well is fine)

i have this harry styles hair length, but it gets really weak and puffy in the middle of the day. may i ask whats best of mousse, hair spray or wax to keep natural and full of volume like harry’s hair. and btw great post

Looking for a strong-hold, matte finish hair styling product that also makes the hair look a bit thicker. Any suggestions? Want something that isn’t difficult to shampoo out either. I’ve tried dozens of products thus far but haven’t found the right product for me yet.

Hello, I’ve got fine-medium, straight, oily hair. I’m growing it to achieve the David Beckham’s short sides long top look (right it is 3.5 inches). What product would you recommend? (I prefer the matte natural look) Thanks

Hi, I have thin-medium, straight and oily hair. My hair length is 3.5 inches but I’m growing it to achieve the David Beckham short sides, long top look. I prefer the natural matte look rather than the stiff look from gel. What product would you recommend?

I posted a while back asking what I should use for my hair to have a nicely held comb over style. Short on the sides, long on top.

My hair is very wavy but using a wax that holds it down completely makes it look off.

I’m glad I came on here and was suggested pomades. I tried one of the suggestions which was the imperial pomade which worked well but since it’s almost gone, I wanted to try the other suggestion which was the Gatsby Moving Rubber. Looking into it, there are many different options to choose from, which type would be best based on my hair?

I have.. not super thin hair but not super thick either I’m trying to go for the David Beckham look and I’m using I think styling cream and it looks good but not for long. So I want something that looks about the same but has a better hold without making my hair hard. Any suggestions?

Hey there! Thanks for taking the time to reply to everyone, it’s really appreciated. I have been going through lots of different pomades and gels and other products for a while now trying to find one that will suit my needs; products such as: Layrite, Suavecito, Slick Devil, Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Shaping Cream etc. I’m wondering if you can help point me in the right direction for what I like to do.

My hair isn’t that long, but the premise is still there. I need something that will hold my hair in place when I sweep it down but I want it to be light and now stiff. You know, somewhat malleable. Do you know of anything that might fit those needs? Any tips for styling it that way?

I also lift it all up to a usual pomp from time to time so if the product could also be strong enough to support that, that would be nice. With that said, I can usually accomplish that look just fine with the products I have. Thanks in advance for any help you may offer. I really appreciate it!

Hello! A real great article explaining many things about hair styling and making it really simple!
Although i have a disagreement! In the category styling creams you reffering that is a great option if you like style your hair and looking like you have nothing on your hair.
Having a little experience with paul mitchel teat tree shaping cream and a other wax that i am using now i can say that shaping cream made my hair looking more shiny and wet – which is good – than wax that i am using right now.

Thanks for sharing your experience! Creams will tend towards a more natural look overall, relative to wax, pomade and gel products. That said, depending on how much of the cream product you use, it may still give off a shiny/wet finish, which can be countered by blow drying after application or using less of the product.

Hey Black Lapel. You guys are amazing for answering all these questions!

I’m looking for advice on what product to use. I have thick, curly black hair with a half fade cut, and I blow dry it straight. My hair cooperates, but I was wondering what product I should use to achieve the pompadour look. I want more of a matte look that doesn’t allow the strands to curl back up.
P.S. What would you recommend for a business day, shiny, slick to the side look?

Abner, it’s our pleasure to engage with our readers on all things style, grooming products included! Layrite’s Super Hold Pomade is a fine choice for holding down thick/wavy hair. It’s got a good deal of shine, if you’re going for shiny, slick to the side look.

I want my Hair to be like Toni Mahfud’s I dont know which product is the best one to hold and have a firm grip for your hair can you help me by naming some will be a great help. I’m trying to make it long and exactly like Toni i need to know the proper hair products thank you in advance. Please need help and I live in Dallas which stoee will be the best one?

I have brown hair that is decently thick but is very fine and straight. It grows straight out as well, so trying to form it and keep it in place has proved difficult. I’ve used American Crew forming cream, but that doesn’t help at all on a windy day; my hair simply flairs out and/or falls flat on my head and face. What product would you recommend to keep a strong hold on windy days and that doesn’t leave a glossy finish? Thanks!

We don’t blame the Beckham-inspired comments, the gent has great hair! We’d go with a matte pomade here–Baxter’s Clay Pomade, for example. In the wax category, we like TiGi’s Matte Separation for this type of look.

I have very thin hair and have been using Aramis Maltplexx for years. Apparently they no longer make it and am looking for something comparable. Looking for something with good hold that when it dries, does not leave hair feeling greasy.

my hair is generally straight and quite thick, most products i use dont hold too well and require naturally dried hair to be effective. I live in Singapore and its very humid and hot, what products would work well in such an environment? Thanks so much

Hi!
I have short to mid length hair which is thick and wavy, I’m trying to tame it into a swept back-to the side look david beckhamish style using a hair dryer and putty past but having mixed/unpredictable results..
what would you advise?

Hi there, I have thinning dark brown hair and I want to style a pompadour. I’m afraid of loosing anymore hair so what would be the best product that will hold this style up and not weigh down the hair?

If the health of your hair is a concern, you can opt to use the warm air option over hot with plenty of distance. By blow drying too closely to your hair on extremely hot temp settings will run the risk of damaging your hair.

Just had my wavy ,curly salt & pepper hair cut tight,real tight on the sides & back with the top having the length & the wave & curl. Parted on the left with the part fading as it reaches the crown. It’s course and in order to keep the Mad Man style – currently using a sculpting clay. Air moisture affects the hold. I think I need to move to a Pomade as to clay for firmer hold to avoid hair flare up. Recommendation is appreciative as to the choice of good holding product for the and would really like it have some essence of freshness to it “”if possible “”. Can either product also be purchased in a tube dispensing form for traveling purposes ? Which is the better product for new look which I’m digging ?

Check out either Imperial Barber or Baxter for pomades. They have extremely strong hold pomades in their line that hold up relatively well through humidity. If you’re finding that your hair still unravels throughout the course of the day, Gatsby sells mini travel size wax bottles that can fit in your pocket for those moments you need a mid-day touch-up. Hope that helps Drew!

I am caucasian and have shorter wavy to curly hair. As it gets longer it gets quite big and frizzy and just puffs up when it gets dry. I normally slick my hair to the side and keep it short but would like to be able to grow out my hair a bit. What would you recommend?

I have thick, curly/wavy hair that’s 4-5 inches in length in the front. I really like the high hold matte look but my hair is naturally pretty frizzy and dry. I love doing trendy and highly styled looks, but I’m tired of shine as it makes my hair look tacky and out of place compared to a casual well put together outfit. Is there a way I can care for my hair before I style that’ll help the frizz? Or will a high hold matte product keep it looking natural and well kept?

We recommend Gatsby’s Moving Rubber or TiGi’s Matte Separation for a high hold matte product. As for a solution for the frizz, running a comb through your hair while blow drying should detangle and smooth it out before applying the product.

Great post! Very helpful. I have thin and fine blonde hair I’m trying to grow it long. I want a natural look with my hair pushed back. When I do t now my hair falls to the sides and it gives me a curtains kind of look which I don’t want! What would you recommend for me? Thanks

Glad you found it helpful Charlie. Sounds like you need something that’s a bit stronger in the hold department. Try Gatsby’s Moving Rubber or Imperial Barber’s Classic Pomade, if you’re going for a more wet look. Finish it with a layer or two of hair spray (especially on the sides) as insurance. Let us know how that works out!

I’m from UK and find that when I use wax from my local salon, it leaves my hair looking too dry, but when I use gel it seems to make my hair look too greasy with no volume. I also tried a mousse which seems to give a more natural wet look at first, but it drys out easily. I’m trying to achieve the swept back look on short to medium length hair. What will give volume and a wet look but without it being a greasy look, whilst maintaining the hold and look all day?

I’m from UK and find that when I use was from my local salon it leaves my hair looking too dry, but when I use gel it seems to make my hair look too greasy with no volume. I also tried a mousse which seems to give a more natural wet look at first, but it drys out easily. I’m trying to achieve the swept back look on short to medium length hair. What will give volume and a wet look but without it being a greasy look?

I have fairly thick hair which i normally have blow dried back to create a quiff looking style, but i dont know which kind of product to use on my hair after i use the hairdryer (which i use to get volume). Im looking for a high hold product that’ll keep my hair up throughout the day and wont let it flop down, this is because my hair is thick and at the moment it is quite long (about half way down my nose if i flatten it). But i also want the product to give my hair a matte, non shiny/greasy finish to make it look like it hasnt got loads of product in to make it look more natural! What do i use??

I started growing my hair out with the intention of doing a man bun. I haven’t cut my hair in about 4-5 months, starting with about 3 inches of hair on top, 2 on the sides. I Have rather thin hair, pretty wavy with a lot of volume. I’m in an awkward stage at this point and trying to fight through it. Hair isn’t long enough to tie up yet. I want to have a wet hair, but pliable look. Not hardening gels or hairsprays. I have even toyed with Gareth Bale’s recent look, with hair slicked back with the aid of a headband. Beckham also did a similar look. My hair type is very different from them, and it isn’t my first choice. But I think it may look alright for the time being. Judging by the article, it seems a nice pomade may do the trick?? I have also heard of apply a conditioning protien pack, hair oil products, and even conditioner to achieve a wet look throughout the day. What do you think about those ideas? What would you recommend?

I have fairly straight and extremely soft and thick hair. It is about 5 inches on the top at the moment and the longer I grow it out, it begins to get wavier/curlier. I want to do a slickback a la G-eazy or David Beckham (somewhere between the two). What would you recommend for doing so?

hey guys. My hair is in the middle of thin and thick, I have been growing it out for a couple of months now and want to style it like David Beckham. Although my hair is not as long as his is on top. I have tried got 2b and axe hair products and don’t like them at all, what would recommend i use? thank you!

I have been recommended to use either silver fox by Vilian and Paul Mitchell tree shaping cream, what are you opinions on these products? I like products that give a matte finish so my hair wont be too stiff or wet, thanks

Hi There, I have thin hair and unfortunately i have a bit of hair loss especially in the vertex area an a bit on the front…i’m asking you which product would help me to style my hair in the best way, in order to hide my hair loss too. (I’m trying to style my hair a bit like a quiff). By now i am trying to avoid greasy products and i am using hair spray.

What can you recommend for my hair? It is very thick and wavy, the longer it gets the more wavy it gets. What hairstyle could I rock without having to look at those stupid curls, and what type of hairproduct should I use in it. From this article I would say clay or mud would be nice, but I am not sure

Hi there, I have Asian hair with two hair whorls going the opposite direction and as a result my hair spikes up in between. What would be a good hairstyle to have to mange this? Also how do I make my hair not stick horizontal when it grows out ( I have a fade)

Hey Thomas, the best advice we can give you is to visit your local barber / stylist. An experienced barber will be able to assess your hair type and recommend a style that is both in line with the look with your going for and appropriate for your hair type.

Hey George – if you’re looking for something that’ll decrease the look of oiliness than we’d recommend avoiding products such as classic pomades and gels and opt for something lighter and matte like Sebastian Craft Clay.

I have thick wavy hair there texture is not good they get dry and frizzy and tangled after hair wash can you recommend me a good shampoo
and I need an organic styling product that can provide me shine and strong hold .length of hair from top 9-10cm.

my hair is very very thick and curly/wavy i want something that keeps my hair back but does’t feel hard to touch and doesn’t give a wet look, i tried clay and putty but i have to use so much of it to keep my hair back that it goes hard and sometimes a wet look (i have a lot of hair)i feel like im looking for a product that doesnt exist

i have thick wavy hair.my hair get dry and tangled after hair wash probably because of sulphates shampoo can you recommend me good non sulphate shampoo and i am looking for a product which could provide me good hold and natural shine and volume too.is hanz de fuko combo of hair pomade and sponge wax ok ?

I have thick hair and it gets wavy the longer I grow it. I used to use Suave medium hold plus matte finish because it was very cheap, worked well with my hair, and girls loved the smell, I could match it with my shampoo. I can’t find anything for my hair right now that is suitable and under 18 dollars. I put the Suave in my hair while it was still almost dripping and I end up with a wet look at the start of the day but, I usually run my hands through my hair and it makes it looking less wet. My hair is fairly long as I am younger and like to have “flow”, if you knew anything that would work on my hair that would be great. Thank you.

Hello,
My hairs are thin and wavy. I keep them short to avoid the wavy texture. I am from India with oily scalp. I want a product which could simultaneously provide me with a good hold and decent shine. I have tried a couple of gels and styling creams but due to the oily scalp they have failed to provide a proper hold. Also the wet look they provide isn’t decent and and my thin hairs appear to be gelled extravagantly. Which makes me look a little weird as the hairs look overdone. Could you please suggest me a product which shall be perfect for my kind of hairs.

Hi, I’ve used Hanz de Fuko Claymation, Baxters Clay pomade, Hanz de Fuko Quicksand and Sponge Wax but I can’t achieve the hold I want for my hair, even with hairspray. My hair will just start to fall apart 2 hours after applying the products. I have thin, straight, oily hair and I’m styling an undercut at the moment. I don’t know if this has anything to do with it but my hair generally has a lot of volume once it becomes dry but Any advice on a product that will give me the hold I want and give me a matte finish? Will appreciate it a lot, thank you.

Hi i have very thick,dark & brittle hair. I would like the comb over hair style…i use the water based American Crew Pomade at the moment…i don’t want any products that are too oily but i want a product that will hold my hair in place & add a little shine. Any suggestions for a good product i can use?

I have a medium length hair that is sometimes thin and soft and other times thick and hard, what can I do to make my hair always look great but at the same time not look like I use any product. What type of product would u recommend

Depends on what you’re trying to achieve with it. This is one of those better seen than read. Check out youtube–there are a ton of great videos by professional stylists on achieving various looks with a round brush.

Blow dry your hair w/ your fingers or comb to smooth out the frizz and get it as close to your desired style without any product. Then apply a clay product like Sebastian Craft Clay. Finish off with one of the hair sprays we recommend in the posts if you need that extra hold.

My hair is medium thickness, not real thick and not real thin. I want a matte finish or very, very limited shine for the front of the top of my head. I was thinking some type of wax or clay. Which should I use?

I am Latino, and have really curly hair close to . I usually blow dry it, then straight it then style it. Will i be able to style it afterwards that with the American Crew Pomade product, Or should I buy something else to give it a, moist, and soft with a flow kind of look ? faux hawk

Hi, im an asian guy.. and my hair is thick… I have styling paste and gel.. for now im using gel because paste doesn’t work at all.. i want my hair straight and have a good duration. I’ve never used wax, because they say that your hair falls down in a minute.. It depends on the product.. I want to try clay or wax.. Is it recommended? I have medium hair length. Which product is the best for me?
Sorry for my bad english..
Thank you.

Any help with the natural hair look from mariano di vaio, mine is not strained as he and also mine is has an excessive dry look, mine its kinda wavy and strained at the same time ( shampoo problems i guess )

Blowdrying is key to achieving Mariano’s look. The heat will also straighten out your hair. As for product, try a product like Hanz de Fuko’s Claymation. It’s a matte clay, but it won’t leave your hair looking excessively dry either.

I have Thin hair and a liitle long. I want hair up and lessen from sides.All hair should be Up be controllable.Now ,when i do my hair up by applying Water they come down after 5 min.Also,i am not allowed to spend a lot of money in this.Help me with this

Vinay – longer / thin hair will tend to be much harder to hold up with most water-based products, let alone just water. Try Layrite’s Pomade. The hold is strong and the finish is a wet one that’ll mimic that out-of-the-shower wet hair look. You can it up at Amazon.com for less than $10 so your wallet will thank you as well.

My hairs quite thin and soft. I’ve been using clay to kind of quiff it back but the clay is quite heavy on my hair and leaves it looking clumpy (even when I barely use anything). I’m looking for a shinier, softer more natural look. Any thoughts? I think The styling cream looks the best out of those.

Alex, wish we could help you here but we don’t have personal experience with that specific product. From the description, it looks like it’s a high hold matte clay. See the Matte products section of the post to see what type of hairstyles and hair types work best for it.

I am currently using TIGI B for Men matte separation wax. I don’t like it’s finish on my hair, it’s almost like a gel type. It seems to freeze my hair. The look is anything but natural. My hair it’s almost 3 inches on top and almost an inch on the sides and back. Maybe there is something I am doing wrong. I’ve tried blow drying before and after applying the product.

We’ve heard great things about Hanz de Fuko’s Claymation, especially for dense hair types. This “clay-wax” hybrid will help tame waviness and allow you to hold down/style even the densest of hair types.

My hair is super thick, wavy, frizzy and frankly like a dead bush. I use argon oil based shampoo (which has, I think made difference for the better) and a good conditioner. I have wanted to grow it way out for a while now and tried a few months back but cut it because it became a massive, wavy and gross mullet. What can I do to improve my hair, to go for a looser and shinier look, so my eventual long hair doesn’t become a puff-mullet?

Andy, great question. Before adding any product to your hair, try giving your hair a thorough blow drying while combing through your strands. This will untangle frizz and give your hair a healthier, shinier and sleeker look.

Hey I am growing my hair out long and I have a few questions. I am looking for a product that will keep my bangs from falling in my face because I am trying to push my hair back, but I don’t want my hair to look all crusty and stiff, when people touch my hair I don’t want them to feel a bunch of gel or anything I just want them to feel my hair… But I still need a product that will keep it from coming back into my face. Oh and I have farly thin and straight blonde hair.. Any suggestions ?

I have a oval face cut, having flat and straight hair. I dont know which hairstyle suits me. I have tried some small hairstyles but my barber often says me that if you want a good hairstyle you have to put sebastian craft clay for your hairtype. Now I dont know whether it will be suitable for me or no. I will be spending a few bucks and I dont get results what I need then? I am totally confused what to do. Obviously who doesnt want to look great! PLS HEP

Your local stylist or barber should be able to give you better insight on this question. Perhaps take a few photos of styles you’ve liked and ask for their honest feedback. If they’re doing their job, they’ll help take all things into consideration, including your hair type, face shape and the general look you’re going for.

I have thin,quite oily dark brown hair.I want your advice in order to achieve a look like mariano di vaio.What products should I choose to achieve it(I do not want a wet look)and if a have to use a dryer and a brush.thank you

Hey Pratik, please use the hair type guide above. It should be sufficient to guide most in the right direction. If you’re still lost, feel free to describe it as best as you can in a comment and we’ll do our best to point you in the right direction!

Hello, I was wondering if you could help me. I have thin, fine and straight hair and I would like to have a dry quiff. I have tried wax’s, pastes and gel and can never find anything that will hold for the day and looks dry! Thank you

This was a great article, but I still need some advice please. I have thick straight hair, about 5 inches on the top and short on the sides. I’m sorta going for the David Beckham/G-eazy style. I want something with a strong hold and I don’t mind for a little shine, but I absolutely don’t want medium or high shine. I’ve tried American Crew Fiber, but that wasn’t strong enough and didn’t hold. The best thing I’ve tried so far is d:fi heavy wax firm hold, but unfortunately it’s now discontinued. What would you recommend? Thanks.

Great article. I was wondering if you’d be able to help me? I’ve got quite thick, wavey hair and I don’t think I’m using the right products on it. I’m going for a quiff look but the waves just keep breaking out! I use bumble and bumble styling cream, blow dried, followed by layrite to finish but by the end of the day my hair is wavey again. Even after blow drying my hair is already slightly wavey! I found ‘Redken Wool Shake 08 Gel-Slush Texturizer Gel’ kept my hair straight and (I don’t know the right words here) thick and manageable, allowing me to put layrite on and not have it wavey again. Anyway, redken have discontinued wool 08 and I don’t know how to find a new product without spending lots of money trying different things. Can you recommend a product which I can use with a hair dryer which will get rid of the wave and allow me to quiff?

Hey. Great article and very helpful. I guess I’ve a medium, thick, wavy hair; which at times is hard to style the way I want it to; so any recommendation as in what needs to be done, or the right products to be used?

Hey Avi, glad we could shed some light on the topic for you. The “right” product will depend not only on your hair type but the look you’re going for. Please do a quick search of the comments as we’ve addressed your hair type (thick/medium/wavy hair) for a few different styles already.

Hi there, great article, wondering whether you can give me some specific advice as well if that’s ok. I have thin, straight & oily hair. There’s not a lot of fullness or body to it. What would you recommend by way of styling product? Thanks heaps…

Hey Paul, glad you found the post helpful. Try one of the volumizing products we recommend in the post. If you don’t have any of the products on hand, try finishing off your usual styling routine with a final blow dry to give it that natural volume while drying out some of the oil.

I guess I have medium length hair, shaved on the sides and goes back. It’s thin, fine hair. I style it straight back but I’d like to get some texture/thickness out of it to stand tall a little bit and don’t know which product to use. I currently use crew fiber and I don’t think its the right product. I also think my stylist should go a little shorter as I feel it goes kinda flat as it goes straight back but that’s another convo. Any help is appreciated!!!

Hi…
I straightened my hair this month. I was going for the David Beckham look. My hair is medium long now. I don’t know which products to use. I have been using gatsby wax. I have tried both tough and shine, and loose and flow. But they all make my hair look like shit and make me feel bad for straightening my hair. I seem to be only able to create the look when my hair is wet. So i was wondering if you could tell me which products to use to make it look like i haven’t really straightened my hair by giving it a wet look and also being able to restyle it easily.

I have asian hair; its straight, a little thick, and sticks straight up if I get my haircut too short. I need something with strong hold and no shine. I don’t really want it to look like I have any product in my hair. What type of product should I use? I don’t know much about shampoos either, but is there anything I can use that benefits my type of hair? Thanks

Hi..great article! I had thick wavy hair, over one year it’s gone way too thin and oily at center kinda lost a lot of hair…I am using hair regeneration products, please suggest which styling product would hold the hair best..preferably matt..thanks

TiGi’s Matte Separation tends to work best for short-to-medium length hairs. As for hair styles, there would be too many to list, but ones that tend towards a more matte/natural look, but require a fair amount of hold.

Jonathan, glad the post has encouraged you to get out of your comfort zone! The pomades we recommended in this post/comments are a great place to start for comb overs with your type of hair. Most pomades will tend towards a wet finish, but for a more natural look, a product like Baxter’s Clay Pomade will give you that matte look while working fine for comb overs.

The KMS mousse is great, so great my wife confiscated it for herself and our girls! My hair stylist carries it and that’s what she does when she’s done with me, or rather my hair. I switched over the wet look cause I’m in the military and my hat goes on and off all day long when I have to leave and enter a building so I went with American Crew’s Fiber, high hold & matte finish so whenever my hat comes off when I enter, I toss my hand up real quick to undo the damage the military uniform forces me to do my head everyday! It works great cause it lasts all day for hold and doesn’t flake and is incredibly easy to style. I don’t like a high and tight the military likes to portray, probably another reason why I don’t go to the base barber….it’s a travesty those places! Thanks BL for another great article! Be expecting a suit to be ordered this year when I transition to the civilian lifestyle! Have to get ready for that interview process.

Hey Jeremy, it’s great to hear that you’re putting our recommendations to use (while serving at that!). Let us know when you cross over to that civilian life, we’ll be ready to craft you one fine suit to match that sharp ‘do of yours!

Hey there, I have asian, straight, thickish hair. Medium length I’ve only recently began using more hair products. What type of hair product should I use(wax?). I want something that lasts throughout the day and has reasonable hold. The one I’m using loses effect overtime, which is pointless. I’ve read some comments here, and looks like I should try out TiGi’s Matte Separation Wax. Is that good enough on it’s own for all-day hold or should i try throw in some hairspray, if so what do you recommend to works well with the tigi’s matte separation wax? Do you have any recommendations on shampoo etc for my type of hair for healthy looking etc?? (Many questions sorry lol, it’s time to take better care of myself!)

TiGi’s Matte Separation Wax has a rather strong hold that still stays pliable throughout the day. Feel free to add a few layers of hair spray (see post) if you still need a bit more hold longevity. As for shampoos, check out Malin + Goetz, as well as American Crew, they both have excellent shampoos that come highly recommended by our team. Hope that helps!

Hi, I have relatively thick, curly nappy hair. It’s not nappy nappy, but it’s nappy. It is medium/long length and I’m going for a comb over with a matte/dry finish. I usually use gel, but I don’t like the way it turns out and also don’t like the wet look.

Hi, just following on from my last post; I have been recommended Hanz De Fuko Quicksand as a styling product and sea salt spray to use before styling. Is that combination good and also what’s the best process you would recommend to get that messy-yet-stylish look?

Hi Adam, we can’t speak Hanz De Fuko Quicksand sepcifically as we’ve never used it. That said, for that messy-yet-stylish look, try a styling foam such as KMS styling foam followed by some blow drying always seems to do the trick.

Hi, I have fine, straight hair and want to add a bit of volume whilst maintaining the “messy look”. The products I have been using (D:fi – d:struct) tend to make my hair fall flat after styling and I was looking for a product to maintain volume with a dry, messy look.
Also, what’s the best way to style my hair from the start. Currently I apply TiGi Bed Head – Small Talk throughout my hair and blow dry for volume. I then apply megadust and to finish apply styling product.

I have thick hair that sticks straight out as it grows, i usually style my hair into a faux hawk or comb it over using the wax product paul mitchel dry wax and so far has been working. The problem is that it leaves a sticky residue that gets on my hands whenever i reshape it. I like that it allows me to mold it but i want a different product that still gives me that hold with little shine and no sticky residue. I also don’t like that i have to wash my hair daily to get rid of my hair product or else it will leave residue to whatever my hair touches. What product do you recommend for my hair considering my hairstyles?

Hi, so I have Asian hair that’s long, my bangs go past my nose. Its really thin but there’s a lot of it. I’ve tried suavecito pomade but it holds my hair up for an hour then flattens out. I’m trying to get a pomp look or something like an undercut. So I was wondering how I would add volume to it or which product I could use to achieve the look?

My hair is also straight and relatively oily. I want a matte/natural look or one that isn’t too shiny. Can you tell me the process I should take to get there and the product I should use to get an undercut look? Thank you for your time and a great article.

I have relatively thick wavy hair and am looking for a product that will allow my comb over to stay in place and look good all day. Any suggestions on the type of product I should use and a specific product/s you would recommend?

Hi, I have relatively short to medium-ish hair length. My hair is very thin and straight, very fine and nice but when using gels and waxes its hard to find the right kind for what i’m looking for, Im looking for a hair product that can give my type of hair that sort of messy surfer kind of look, but at the same time still be able to give my hair the clean and classy look when i want to as well. any suggestions? please and thankyou!

Hi, i really enjoyed your artical full of guide line for hair. My hair is a bit wavy and thinner . And i tried different hair products but they are not working the way i want. What you recomende to use for my hair style ?

Best bet: show your hair stylist/barber a pic of (insert celebrity) and ask him what product to use to maintain the hairstyle. Hair stylists appreciate it when you can show them a visual example of the cut your going for.

I have thick and slightly curly hair and want to style my hair like david beckham, bruno mars or mariano di vaio. Which product would you recommend me to use ? By the way i don’t want to straighten my hair in order to achieve the style.

So, my case is that I have very thin, light hair, more inclined towards straight than wavy. A bit(a good bit) sparse on the top as compared to the sides, No, I am not bald and not going to be anytime soon!(:P). Using gel weighs them down and they lie flat on the scalp which I don’t like, also as my hair are dry, a bit too much, gel fails to give shine and hold that lasts, . A slight case of thinning and hair-fall might also be present.

I just had a disconnected undercut haircut which is looking great. The guy at the saloon used Osis+ Mess-Up Matt Gum, which added a good hold and texture and my hair looked more fuller which is what i wanted but i could not wave my fingers through them as they got sticky and hard. So, my question is what product shall i use to achieve a more fuller, textured look? shine is not of importance to me, hold, thickness and volume are.
I am cool with both a small pompadore and slicked back undercut style.

Also, please tell me the difference between Osis+ Matt Gum and Osis+ Fibre Gum, and if I were to choose one, which one should it be?

Thanks for the kind words Abhishek! Glad you found this article helpful!

Try Baxter’s Clay Pomade. It’s a bit low on shine, but it’ll give you a hefty hold, volume and texture that you’re going for. It’s also rather soft once applied to your hair so you’ll still be able to remold and put your fingers through your hair with the sticky/hard effect of gel. Hope that helps!

I am Asian.My hair is thin, fine,straight and flat. Whenever i style my hair (spike, or pull back) it always collapes. What can i do? Plus what product should i use when i want a dry look or wet look which can hold my hair?

I’m 18 and I have thin straight hair and i’m looking for a product with a matte/dry finish that has also a strong hold because my hair grow to the front and its almost impossible for me to style a quiff or pompadour and if i manage to do it it always “colapses” :/
do you have any suggestions?
thanks in advance

I have hair that is curly but also has a lot of frizz to it. What would you recommend to help me de-frizz my hair? Does de-frizzing start with shampoo and conditioner or is there a product I should be using when styling my hair?

I have to admit that I haven’t read all the comments.
I read one of the mariano di vaio hairstyle. In fact I also want this hairstyle. My hair is quite thick and can be a bit wavy if not blowdried correctly. You recommended Gatsby moving rubber spiky edge, but i do want a product, which is easily rinsed out of the hair. I was actually thinking of the Fudge matte hed extra in combination with the hair spray of big sexy hair called spray and stay.
I have two questions now:
1.) Do you have any other suggestions for the product I should use?
2.) Is there a hair spray which gives also that good of a hold but with a matte finish?
I also want to thank you for the time and effort you put into this. Lastly I want to add that English is not my native language, so sorry for all the mistakes I’ve made.

That’s what we’re here for Sebastian! Sounds like you’re going for a more natural, matte look. We recommend Baxter’s Clay Pomade for this. It’ll help you achieve the hold without the shine of most pomades. You can then finish with a hair spray followed by another round of blow drying to give it more of that matte finish. Hope that helps!

Thank you for your quick reply. I don’t want to be annoying or something like that, but your recommendation has created another question: Can I wash the product out just with water or do I need shampoo and conditioner as well? If so, is there another option I can use that just washes out with water?
There is also a third question I want to get answered a long time: If I use a blowdryer, should I use a heat protectant? I don’t use a straightener by the way.

A lot of products will require a bit of shampooing to remove completely, but if you’re looking for products that wash out better try a water-based pomade such as Baxter’s Soft Water Pomade. As for heat protection while blow drying, try drying on warm setting on your blow dryer rather than applying intense heat to minimize heat damage.

I am not sure what type of hair I have. I said that I have wavy hair but I’m not 100% sure. Could you tell me my hair type http://alessandro007.imgur.com. If it is wavy could you point me to some hair products and combs or brushes to achieve the Patrick Dempsey look?

Thanks for the information! The wax I currently use is Fudge Matte Hed Extra. It seems fairly lightweight but I was wondering if you could clarify that at all, if you get Fudge hair products over there! I always rub the product thoroughly between my hands and rub it into all of my hair so that isn’t an issue for me. I do prefer using a product that is more of a paste like consistency than a firm clay because there tends to be less stickiness with a product that is easier to work between the hands. Is there an alternative for Spice Freeze Wax that is available in the UK? I have gotten no where with reasearching for a lightweight matte styling wax/clay/putty/paste that is available in my region.

Thank you again for all of the time and effort that is still put into the comments on this post!

What product would you recommend for styling? Just blow drying it with brush is not enough and doesn’t work.. I just tried american crew ultramatte which is not bad. Would you recommend a different one?

i have asian hair that is thick and straight as a needle, what is best for me to use (wax, pomade, gell, hairspray, etc?) if i want to style it in a combover fade style, also what should i use in order to style my hair? comb or brush?

I’m quite confused because your article and most other information online is saying that Waxes won’t work with fine hair because it will weigh it down and that I should use a clay or fiber..

I used American Crew Fiber on my fine, medium length hair to create a messy look but it is always really clumpy and after 10 minutes or so, my hair would be weighed down despite fibers supposedly being better for my hair type.

I recently started doing this process: Volumising milk on damp hair and blow dry. Apply volumising/thickening styling dust to roots/mid lengths. Apply matte high hold wax (more the consistency of paste) and instead of it weighing my hair down, it makes it look great and last two days!

Is this working for me because of the thickening clay dust, which essentially changes my hair type to the required hair type for wax?

It depends on the wax you use Connor. The term is used rather loosely by companies so the weight and consistency of waxes will vary greatly. Spice Freeze Wax, for example, is extremely lightweight compared to something like Gatsby’s Moving Rubber line. When you apply wax (or any product) try rubbing it evenly on your hands until you see no clumps of product then applying it to evenly from root to tip rather than just the tips (as many men tend to do). This will help evenly distribute it prevent it from weighing your hair down as much. Also apply it to dry hair rather than wet/damp hair as it wet hair tends to lead to uneven clumping of wax.

I used Hanz de Fuko Spong Wax and now I use Redken For Men Work Hard Molding Paste and I have a problem. After an hour the products lose hold(both these 2 products are labeled as strong hold). Maybe it’s the humidity, I don’t know, but my hair seems clumpy and doesn’t stay put after an hour with these products. Also i have wavy hair. I was thinking that maybe I also have oily hair. Especially when I sweat I have these problems with the hair products. How do I know if I have oily hair,dry hair,frizzy hair etc.?

Hey, just stumbled across this article and it’s great!
I am half Asian and am pretty sure I got the Asian hair genetics. After a shower or when sweating from playing sports all my hair sticks up to the point where I look like a porcupine. To combat this I generally just wear a baseball cap, however I’d love a solution that would allow my hair to naturally stay down (if that is possible)

Luke, glad you found this post informative and helpful. Don’t sweat it, discheveled hair post exercise/sweating has less to do with genetics than it being just one of those inevitable hair problems that every active man faces. Don’t expect too much from your hair product when the sweat starts rolling. From the sounds of it, it seems like your hair may simply be short. Grow out it out a bit–the added weight will give your hair some weight to help fight the porcupine effect.

My hair (or scalp) is oily. In too if that my hair are falling. But now it’s under control. I use gel to hold my hair style. I’ve observed that when I use gel, my hair fall.
Can you suggest me some product to retain my hair style?
If styling is not a problem what if we don’t use anything after getting hair washed by a trusted shampoo?

Gel tends to be on the heavier side so it’ll often weigh down hair, especially thin/light hair. If volume is what you’re going for, try giving your hair a solid blow dry then follow it up with a strong hold hair spray for lightweight+strong hold.

Hey, so I have thick wavy black hair with a lotta frizz! Once my hair grows after a particular length, it starts to whirl, which simply looks untamed. I’ve tried gels, but they hold hair in a not-so-natural way and cause hair to stick to each other.I would want products that would give me a natural styled up look with texture and movement, not the wet look though. Any suggestions, please?
P.S- I’m an Indian.So, it would be great if the recommended products were to be available locally. Thanks!

Hello, I having wavy Dry hair but I want hair style as shag. so, how I treat my hair. I want straight hair for make shag style as Japanese. So, please instruct me which brand I want to use ? and which brand is cheap cost and good product ? please inform me.

If you have wavy hair, you’d either have to blow dry it straight or get it treated at a salon. Keratin straightener products like the ones we suggest in the article (e.g. Keratin Complex’s Vita Volume Boosting Foam) are an option as well. Hope that straightens things a bit!

I have tried so many products and its so hard to keep my hair in place. I have thick straight hair. Sometimes i will have a semi-messy look, sort of a josh duhamel hair style, I was using the KMS hair stay MAX gel. They dont carry it anymore…darn…help?

I have very thick hair. It is curly but i usually keep it short so the curliness is not visible until it gets long. I have tried a lot of products but i would like your opinion about the best product that has strong hold (long) and a wet look. To be honest i dislike gels in general and i am more towards wax. I am thinking of getting the Gatsby Moving Rubber Cool Wet Hair Wax. What do you think about that? Do you have any other suggestions?

Hi, thanks for those valuable tips … By the way I have a question to ask … My hair is in the mid-point of thick & thin … Straight but not that straight types … So my question is that which type of product will be the best for me ?

If I buzz my hair the same number all over (number 1 or number 2) will it grow puffy? I heard that cutting your hair the same length all over doesn’t look as good as say for example number 2 on the sides and back and number 3 on top. Or is 1 number difference(number 2 on the sides and back and number 3 on top) too small and I should go 2 numbers difference(number 2 on back and sides and 4 on top or 1 on back and sides and 3 on top).

To give you the short answer, yes. By buzzing your hair the same length all around you run the risk of looking like a chia pet when it grows out to that uncomfortable mid-length. As for the exact numbers to buzz, that’s something your barber would be better able to answer.

Hi, very interesting tip.
I have a question,
is it ok to use hairspray after styling hair with oil based pomade? because I want to have slick back hairstyle and need it to stay in place (just on special occasion). I was thinking maybe I can just apply more pomade, but as I browse the internet I saw some tips to use hairspray after styling, but I’m not sure whether it would works after oil base pomade or not. Oh and my hair type is thin fine straight.
Thanks!

Just to add to the aforementioned info… I have tried B&b Sumotech, Sumowax, and Semisumo. All unsatisfactory. Too greasy and in addition the Sumotech’s fragrance is pretty strong. I contacted B&b and they couldn’t suggest one of their products to use instead of Styling Wax. Wish they would bring it back but not counting on it. Thanks for answering all these questions for the last year and a half. Loved you article. Really good, clear and concise information.

Hey, I’ve been using Bumble and bumble Styling Wax for years and it’s perfect for my short, thick, wavy, piecey, hair. Well, it has been discontinued. Any product you can suggest that is similar to B&b Styling Wax?

Thanks for the information. I need some help with my hair, when I go trough my hair with wax it won’t move, my hair keeps laying flat with an average hold wax. My hair is very thick and about 4cm long. I use now murrays pomade but can you recomend me a wax that gives my hair more volume. I like the sleek look. Sorry for my englisch, i’m dutch

Hello I have a few questions if you don’t mind. What is the difference between Redken for men firm grasp texurizing hair clay and Redken for men maneuver working / texturizing wax? Also what is the difference between Redken for men get groomed finishing cream and Redken for men dishevel fiber hair cream?

Hey Alex, while we can’t give you an exact comparison beyond the product’s descriptions since our experience with their products is limited, we can guide you in the right direction if you tell us what you’re looking for in a hair product.

My hair falls under the category of thin, fine, and straight, and I’m trying to achieve that natural messy roguish bed look. I’ve been using the American Crew Molding Clay for a year now (I think), and although it has not help me achieved that look I’m trying to get I was satisfied with it, but now I’ve noticed that whenever I put it on, a few minutes after I style my hair with this product, it kinda loses its hold and just falls. So I was wondering what kind of hair product would you recommend for me to try? I really can’t play the game with the ladies if I don’t look part of it. Hahaha, sorry for the essay, and props for replying to everyone’s questions. Good job, keep it up!

John, thanks for the kind words and there’s no need to apologize for the in-depth comment (we encourage it!). If there are two things we can attest to boosting a man’s inherent confidence (especially in the “game with the ladies”), it’s a well tailored suit and well groomed hair.

To answer your question regarding a product that can help you achieve that naturally messy look with some oomph in the hold department you have a few options–we’ve been recommending Matte Separation Wax by TiGi coupled with a couple layers of hair spray for added hold. Play on.

Bro… My hair is thick.. Few day ago i colour my hair.. After colouring hair i found that my hair is falling very much.. So how can i stop it.. And i am the fan of cr7.. So what should i use for making my hair like cr7

hi! i am 18 and have thin and dry hair. my hair after growing a little bit doesn’t stay the way i want. I’ve been using gel for a while now. what kind of hair product will suit my kind of hair and i am going for a quiff..

Cesar, the best way to get hair damaged from bleaching back to it’s prime state is to let new hair grow out. In the meantime, we recommend continuing your natural oil routine and making sure you use a solid conditioner after shower to help infuse moisture to your stiff hair. As for styling products, try a matte product such as Matte Separation Wax from TiGi, ideal for creating texture with a matte finish for a more natural look. For something lighter, try a product such as Soft Water Pomade which give you texture and flexibility but with a bit more shine.

I have fairly wavey hair that becomes pretty curly as I grow it out.
I’m keen to style my hair like Richard Madden’s (Rob Stark!). Could you please let me know what the best product would be for this!
I’m in Australia so preferably something available over here
Kudos on replying to everyone by the way!

hello,
That post was SO informative, Thanks a ton.
I have thick hair and trying for some spiky texture with close to head cut on the sides and back and medium size hair length on top.
I am using a Gatsby Gel, it does provide some hold but after a while the hair starts loosing the hold and falling over my forehead.
Please recommend what product can I go for, a gel / pomade or wax.
(also some thing that has less chances of breaking me out on forehead).
LONG I know :p

Hey! Great article! So, I have finished reading all the comments but fail to understand which products to use for thin/fine hair. Let me try asking again

I am 22. I have very thin/fine hair with low hair density (genetically), but I am not balding and there is no significant hair loss.

I have always feared that hair products will damage hair and will cause hair loss/damage which I am trying to keep at bay.

1) I am unsure about my hairstyle ?

– long hair becomes unmanageable: keep covering the forehead if shampooed or fall flat and look greasy when not.
– short hair: provides no hair style at all and just lie there.
——–I have got a small round face :———-

2) I am unsure if a thickening shampoo will help. If yes, which one?

3) Wax/ Mousse/ Pomade/ Putty/ Paste ??
-I would like a natural dry-matte finish with some hold in front.

1) We recommend visiting your local barber or salon for a hair consultation. Google some pics of styles you like and share it with your barber/stylist to see if it will work with your hair type.
2) L’Oréal Vive Pro for Men 2-in-1 Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner
3) Try Baxter’s Clay Pomade for a dry matte finish.

Hey Black Lapel! Thanks for this amazing article! I’m a 15 year old, Pakistani kid in High School in Iowa and have very fine and thin hair. I’m trying to go for a quiff or some sort of spiked look (like every other High School guy) with a wet or matte look (either one) but when I use any type of gel my hair never stays up! It falls back down even before leaving the bathroom. I was wondering what type of product to use to keep it up and style it while adding volume at the same time. Thanks again and hope to get a response soon!

Hi,black lapel. I am Indian with very thin and straight limp hair.
I have tried every gel for volume and hold , but it doesn’t work . Recently
I was using Gatsby mat & hard wax , this make my hair grease and hold doesn’t last long.in this article you told pomade for thin hair and wax for thick hair , but in comment you are recommending mostly wax for thin hair . This really confuse me
Please suggest me a product for volume, light hold and wet look ( not so wet ) like we get after bath. Please give name that is easily available in India and not expensive

Ali, it really depends on what you’re going after. The recommendations we give in the article are merely guidelines, not hard fast rules. If you’re after volume, try blow drying your hair then using a pomade such as Soft Water Pomade from Baxter for light hold and that out-of-shower. You can find it on Amazon.com and will run you around ~$20 which is very comparable to Gatsby’s line. Hope that helps!

I have the thick wavy indian hair and it is too the extreme – I am using American Grooming Cream but it does not hold, and at the end of the day – my hair looks like i just got out of bed.
What do you suggest would work for me
I would like to keep my hair looking straight and professional rather than messy.

Hi, I have Asian straight hair that’s inbetween thin and thick. I currently use erratic clay but it doesn’t really give a very strong hold (maybe I’m using it wrong), was thinking of using wax instead ( TiGi matt separation ) I’m looking for more textured and volume and hold. Btw, I live in a country that’s very humid(does that affect?)

Depends on what you’re going for. The fiber is described as “low shine” while Matte Separation from TiGi will have no shine. They’re both big on hold, but we find that Matte Separation is a bit tougher in the hold department.

Hi! I have thick black hair, and I got it cut short, in the same style as Patrick J Adams in Suits. I got some gel from the salon, and it was not strong enough to keep it fully up. Also, my hair had a very dull look after an hour. Also, my hair gets oily 24 hours after shampooing. Is there any type of product that I could use on it to make it have a more layered look, like the kind that makes it look like it still has volume, not dull? Thank you so much!

Hi! I am a college student. I’m asian and have thin straight hair that just grows flat but I want to style it up into a quiff with a matte look. It’s really hard to do that with my hair so what kind of product do you recommend I use? And if you have any styling instructions/tips too that’d be awesome. I find many products just weigh my hair down or don’t hold strong/long enough. Thank you!

Blow dry for volume, then use a little bit of TiGi’s Matte Separation. If you’re worried about product weighing your thin hair down, you can try skipping the wax altogether and going with only hair spray.

What a wonderful and useful article you wrote! I can see your genuine effort in sharing your knowledge for others. From hair type, its uses and advantages on using a certain hair product. Most of all, you already provided the specific products we could buy to apply it in our hair. Really, I can’t ask for more after reading this article. All is here already. Thanks for sharing this! I will apply your tips and hopefully on my next date, I would be handsome as hell.

Hi, my hair is quite long on top, (down to my mouth) but short on the sides, it is quite thin, fair and straight. I often wear it in a ponytail at the back of my head but recently I’ve wanted to wear it loose, so I decided to have it slicked back. I say slicked but I don’t want to use anything with a shiny/greasy look, I would prefer matte. I want something that is able to hold it back but still allow me to run my fingers through it and still be soft. I donmt mind if it falls a little but I don’t want it down my face. Any suggestions?

Amazing piece pf arcticle . I am 19 years old
My hairtype – thin and wavy hair
Hairstyle – short hair on the side and back ,medium hair on top !
Can you tell me which product to use in order to get shine , volume and remoldability ?

Thanks Vikram! Glad you found it helpful. Depending on the level of hold you’re after, our recommendation will obviously change. However, for a solid hold, volume and remoldability for your hair type, Baxter’s Classic Pomade is recommended.

Amazing piece! I have been looking for some similar advice for a while and thanks for this article!
I have thin, slightly curly hair and I use L’Oeal paste and hairspray but the hold is awful. I read above that wax is for thicker hair types and offers the best hold but that’s not an option since I have fine curly hair right?
I’m trying to find a matte product with strong hold for fine wavy hair. What’s your suggestion?

Hey Jim, we recommend TiGi’s Matte Separation. It’s a matte wax with strong hold that work with both straight hair styles as well as wavy types such as yours. As for your question regarding the difference between paste and clay, pastes are generally closer to waxes, except more creamy than waxy. However, brands will often use the two terms rather loosely so the only way to truly find a product right for you is to make sure to read the product description and try it out!

I want to do a comb over but I have never really let my hair grow long enough to. I have very fine Caucasian hair, and I have no idea what I am doing with hair styles or hair products. What would be the best product for a comb over with very short sides and medium length on top?

What a wonderful and useful article you just made! I can see your genuine effort in sharing this one. From hair type, its uses and advantage on using a certain hair product, and most of all you already provided the specific products we could buy to apply it in our hair. Really I can’t ask for more after reading this article. All is here already. Thanks for sharing this! I will apply your tips and hopefully on my next date I would be handsome as hell.

Jason, glad you’ve found the post helpful. Hanz de Fuko modify pomade is a popular option for achieving that look. If you’re looking for more of a matte finish, TiGi’s Matte Separation Wax is another one.

Hi Black Lapel, great artical, I’m a urban 24 year old, been getting a simple grade 1 all over all my life and with a naturally built body end up looking like a thug/convict – I now want to smarten up my look, I went to proper hairdressers for the first time and they were shocked to see how thick and healthy my hair was (I’ve never used hair products in my life) I am of African/Asian decent so I have generally very thick but short hair, when I wash it, it becomes quite dry however gets quite oily and greasy after a few days. I am looking to use a type of product that can style my hair (without any chemical damage) similar to that of Mad men haircut, grateful for your advice, many thanks!

We recommend a strong pomade like the classic Murray’s Pomade or Imperial’s Classic Pomade for achieving Draper’s smart side-part. Once you get the hair down, don’t forget the well-tailored suit! (Hint: we specialize in that department.)

hi how are you.
i have medium stright hairs, but looking rough. after making shampooo and conditioner but its look like dirty or un wash. there is no shine in hairs i want shine my hair . so what i do for it. my age is 25. and what i use for shinee hairs. regards.

This was a great read!
I have medium length hair ( maybe medium short ) I’m 38 now so it isn’t as thick as it used to be, with some natural wave/ curl. I have tried different things for years. The closest I’ve come to satisfaction so far is Aquage Transforming Paste or Beyond the Zone Demented goo… My hair is stubborn! and Pomades like Crew don’t work, they just make my hair fall flat in certain places. Any idea of a new product to try to keep the control as well as a shine?
Thank you!

I have been using KEvin Murphy Night Rider for my hair and it works like a dream as i have really thick curly hair, so to get it sitting like i want, this product is perfect. what i would like to know though, is there a product similar thats not as pricey for daily use, as £15-£20 a tub isn’t the cheapest? thanks

Nice article black lapel! Definitely a good read! Ive been trying to find a product but nothing ive really been satified with. My hair is thin and straight I have asian hair haha and is about 4 in long on the top but maybe I will let it grow a little bit more. I want to go for a natural soft comb over kind of look. Ive tried american crew fiber which is alright but didnt give me the look i wanted. Sometimes ill just use mousse and hairspray to shape my hair and i like the way it feels, feels like nothing is in my hair to where i can comb my fingers through whenever i want. But wouldnt hold especially around my cow lick. Any products you would recommend? thanks!

Try Baxter’s clay pomade. It’ll give you that natural soft look that you’re going for while giving a decent amount of hold. If you’re looking for more hold, Gatsby technical wax does a good job of that while maintaining a similar matte finish.

Great read but have some questions on advice.
I am currently growing my hair out for a modern undercut/deep side part look. I have used other products in the past and nothing seems to work with my hair it’s as if my hair refuses to take to the product about five minutes after applying and looks like nothing was applied even if it was loaded up with American Crew fiber or the like. The only product that has a good balance of shine and great hold is Glu’d by Got2B but want to use something that isn’t as harsh for this look I am going for but am afraid that no other products will take to my hair or actually last. Any suggestions?

I would recommend American Crew Forming Cream to your readers. American Crew says it works on all hair types. I bought a jar after a stylist used it on my hair recently and I can say it works better than any product I’ve ever tried on my fine, thinning on top hair and I’ve tried gazzillions of different products over the yrs. I also have oily hair and the cream doesn’t make it oilier any sooner. It is softer than a water based pomade and for that matter the Tea Tree Shaping Cream you recommend so is easier to apply. And makes hair appear fuller and thicker. It’s the only product I’ve ever used that actually swells my hair when I apply it even to dry hair rather than weighing it down and making it flatter. Gives a little shine not a lot. And holds great but is also quite pliable. Washes out easily with no residue.

Thanks for this article. As a beginner to hair care, I’ve found it incredibly useful.

I’m looking to keep my bangs up higher, so they are more horizontal and/or to the side (rather than hanging over my forehead). When my hair is wet – after a shower, for example – I can comb it into the orientation I like. However, 15 minutes later as my hair dries, my bangs return to before.

I think some light hair product would be useful here. However, I don’t want it to look like I have product in my hair. Based on your article, it looks like waxes or creams are the way to go, but I can’t really decide between the two; would creams have enough hold? I have short (1″), straight hair. Do you have any tips?

Depending how thick your hair is, you may need a bit more hold given the short length of your hair. Try a clay product such as Sebastian’s Craft clay which will have a little more hold than your average styling cream, but still keep that natural/no-product look you’re going for.

I have really thin, straight and medium in length hair, I want to have a kind of swept back hair style but with a little height, after reading the above I was thinking of using some mousse, styling cream them a small amount of hairspray to finish up. Would you agree, I’m looking for a natural look but with a lot of hold.

We’d recommend Baxter’s Clay Pomade. The hold will allow you to give you a little lift/volume while the clay giving it more of a matte, natural look. If it still looks like there’s a bit too much product, try finishing with a light blow dry.

Hey. I have thick and wavy hair and I used wax but not really happy with the fact that my hair is hard to wash after applying wax.
What other products can I use that have a better hold. Do you think styling cream would be a better option?

Hello,I’m a teenager and I have fine,straight hair that’s about 5-6 inches long and I’m looking for a product that’s sold in the U.S,which costs a maximum of 10$,that can provide a lot of hold to my hair yet doesn’t make it really stiff or too shiny,I’m trying to get a disconnected undercut (keep in mind I MIGHT cut my hair a little bit shorter).http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QASWDavV0P8 (I don’t want to use the products here since they are kinda pricey)

Try Matte Separation from TIGI Bed. It’s around $15 on Amazon.com, but you can find some other sellers selling it for $10 or less. It’ll give you hold, without being too stiff or shiny (hence the name). Good luck!

I’ve been using Hanz de Fuko Claymation recently and I really like it. Thinking about switching to Bumble’s Sumowax or SemiSumo. What are the differences between Claymation and the Bumble products? Thanks!

Hey guys, thanks for the great guide. I have coarse thick straight hair about medium length on the top. I have tried almost all brands and types of hair products and have realized that the closest thing to working for me has been clay, however too little gives no hold and the right amount for hold weighs it down. Any suggestions of a super light/extra high hold clay? Thank you so much!

Imperial Barber makes some strong pomades that should provide strong hold, longevity for your hair length. If you visit their website at imperialbarberproducts.com, you’ll even see many of their models rockin’ the disconnected undercut style you’re describing.

Hi I’m a south Asian teenager who is looking for a product to style my hair up since it is thick, wavy, and naturally falls. I would prefer little to none shine, what product do you think would work best? thank you

The products I’ve used so far (American Crew Fibre and Pomade, Shaping Cream) aren’t able to hold my hair in place as the hair at the top of my head tends to flop forward. I’m trying to get a natural look, without too much shine, but holding the hair in place is the main objective! Any recommendations (products and/or styling tips)? Thanks!

The issue is partly product, but mostly the fact that your hair just isn’t look enough. For hold, go with Gatsby, it’s matte and the hold is one of the best on the market. Add a little hair spray for extra hold if the wax doesn’t cut it.

Hi I was wondering if you have any recommendations for what type of product I could use that will provide a decent hold and shine without leaving a sticky residue or flaking out at the end of the day? I have short to medium length thick wavy hair and I wear a headset all day at my job so at the end of the day my hair either ends up being a sticky mess or full of flakes. I’ve tried fibers, pomades, gels and waxes. Maybe I just need to find a good brand?

Try Gatbsy’s Moving Rubber. It’s another Japanese brand with similar properties, but is a bit cheaper than Spice Freeze Wax. They also have smaller sample sizes if you’re looking to try their different varieties on the cheap.

Thought I replied to my comment to add some information but previous comment disappeared. So here it is again.

Just got my haircut (#3 on the sides and left 2.5 inches or so on top). My hair is probably medium thickness and straight. It also tends to get greasier as the day goes on and I have dandruff which I combat with Head and Shoulders pretty much daily. Have any recommendations for styling products? Great article by the way!

Thanks Eric! Greasiness throughout the day is inevitable as everyone’s scalp secretes oil. Obviously adding a greasy styling product on top of that doesn’t help either. We’ve had some good experiences with Spice Freeze Wax which works well with medium thick and straight hair and tends to be light and clean compared to a lot of its greasier counterparts.

I’ve been looking online and have seen that tigi bed head separation wax is supposed to be a good product also. Is there any major difference between this and the Spice Freeze Wax that you recommended?

Hi, great article. I have medium to long hair that is wavy/curly, and I am growing it out. My hair sometimes gets a little dried out and almost poofy looking. I currently use American Crew Defining Paste to contain it and style it a little, but it loses its effect after a while and doesn’t have much hold. I’m starting work in NYC this summer, and I want to keep my wave and curls, but also make my hair neater and more styled/manageable. I want it to have some hold without being stiff. I basically want a moisturized look (not very wet) that I can somewhat put into place without it looking stiff and immovable.

Hi I’m 21 and I’m slightly balding on the sides of my forehead I know this is hereditary but what sort of haircut should I get to even try cover one or both sides of my head? My hair is thick enough just light on the sides of my forehead?

RB, a lot of men deal with balding, but fortunately there are plenty of ways to ameliorate it. For example, a side part pomp that covers one side will definitely be better than pulling all your hair back on both.

I love this site so now i have a question i am needing something to slick my hair down here is the situation i am now wearing wigs and need my hair slicked down, but not using gel,i need something that will hold all day. So what can i use i’ve tried many products and none have worked. What do you suggest

What product is best for finer hair for volume and thickness? My cut is longer on the top, tighter on the sides and want to comb it back. My hairline is ok but I’m starting to thin on my crown. While living in California I liked Crew Fiber but I now live in Florida and it tends to melt and look greasy then thins out and starts to wave when its hot out.

Hey, great job on this article. However I still have a question. I have curly, and I’m planning to do my hair like Sergio Ramos. What product should I use that will take control of my curls and have me turning heads? I have black hair, it’s rather dry and frizzy, not oily.
Here’s the link to the hairstyle I want. Thank you!http://menshair.about.com/b/2012/12/27/sergio-ramos-haircut.htm

If you have naturally, extremely curly hair, it will be tough to achieve that straighter look. Depending on the types of curls, it may simply come down to cutting your hair shorter or doing some type of straightening treatment. Your best bet will be to visit your local salon or barber for a professional recommendation.

hi great work
My front hair is wavy and gets more wavy or curled when shampooed. I would like to comb it to one side and while having it combed to one side i would like to it to be straight rather than curl or be wavy. which product is best with a dry look. even shampoo is used or not.

I’m awed at how awesome the Compass is! Months later and you guys are still helping every commenter out; that’s amazing. Indochino seems so one-sided when you look at how awesome Black Lapel’s marketing is between the Compass and your awesome deals. Kudos.

Now to my comment. Let me first start with some background. I have wavy, thicker brown hair. I’m trying to achieve this look (http://www.topnewhairstyles.net/wp-content/uploads/messy_men_hair_style.jpg). The first time I read this article (when it came out) I bought the American Crew pomade for styling and the Redkin styling cream for bed head days. I found both of these products disappointing. I didn’t realize my hair was oily until I started using the pomade and found my hair to be greasier (just as you guys warned!). The styling cream works sometimes, but is way too subtle to achieve what I’m going for. I just find that my hair always clumps up for a lack of a better term and looks like this (http://www.menshairstyletrends.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/wavy-hairstyles-for-men.jpg) with the curls in the front.

So now I’m looking at getting the Redken working wax or Shu Uemera Shape Paste Sculpting Putty and topping it off with the KMS California Hairplay Paste Up Spray to make sure everything stays put on those windy days (which occur quite a bit where I live). So would you go with the Redken or Shu Uemera? Is the KMS a good finishing touch. I’d love to hear what you think of this. Feel free to blow my whole plan up and start new if you think it won’t achieve what I’m going for.

Hello and thanks for the article.
I have long, fine and a mix of wavy and straight hair. Currently, my hair go down to my eyes but I want to let them grow down to the chin. Indeed, I wish to put my hair back but in maintaining a matte effect and having volume.
According to your article I have to take a texturizer and an hair spray ?
Can you give me advice. Thanks

No worries on the English grammar. We have readers from all different parts of the globe and we’re appreciative of every single one. Start with blow drying your hair while running your fingers through to straighten out your wavy hair while giving it a bit of volume. Then add a matte product such as Sebastian Craft Clay for hold.

I want to have the Zac Efron long shaggy hairstyle
I have straight thin fine hair,after showers it looks awesome but after it dries,like after 2 hrs it sticks together and doesn’t look good
what should i use?
I use Aloevera shampoo everyday and Garnier conditioner twice a week

Could you please recommend me some quality water based styling creams for men with thick long hair? Basically I would want a cream that can pull of this look https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okEeKd5B5OM but the cream should be water based( it’s not healthy to wash your hair every day).

Try Semi-sumo. It’s a bit softer on the hold but it’ll add that healthy bit of shine that sumotech might lack. If the product isn’t strong enough, you can always mix a bit of both. Make sure you wash and completely blow dry your hair so the product isn’t dampened by water or your hair’s oils as either will kill the longevity of the hold.

Hope you can help. I have thick hair that is pretty curly in some areas. Its long now and trying to get a look similar to Joe Manganiello. My hair is shorter than his but cant find a product that would hold it in place and not look slicked back. Do you have any ideas?

My hair thin, straight, flat, and strong, of medium length at the top and short on the back and sides. It is proving very hard to style, as it doesn’t hold the shape with movement, wind, or time. I am going for the look shown in the top-right picture of David Beckham in the introduction of the page; folded up, back, and to the side. I’ve used different hair products such as gel and wax, but they either don’t give the hold I’m after and fall flat after a very short period of time, or make my hair look greasy and wet. I have yet to use a matte product, but was wondering which type of product you would recommend for the aforementioned look, and how much of it to use in the morning? Thank you

Some may suggest shampooing every other day rather than daily in order to not strip the hair of its natural oils which can dry out and damage your hair. The longer and thicker your hair is, the more it can go between washes. 4-5 times/week should be plenty.

Yea, there’s nothing wrong with a re-touch-up if your style demands it! If you want to avoid shampooing twice just to get product out of your hair, you can also try a product like Redken for Men Maneuver Working Wax or any of Imperial Barber’s water-based products which wash out rather easily with just water.

I have long, but a lot of fine hair, and I have not found anything that controls my hair for one day. I am trying to keep it in one place and combed back. Hair gel and spray eventually wears off throughout the day and my hair starts go to the sides. The hair waxes I use do the same. What hair product would you recommend for my hair?

Try Gatsby Moving Rubber Wax or Imperial Barber Classic Pomade. They’re two of the strongest/longest lasting wax/pomade products we’ve tried. Depending on how much action your hair gets–sweat or tons of activity (e.g. sports, being on a yacht with the sea winds blowing through your hair…) can unravel even the strongest of hair products so there’s nothing wrong with carrying a little wax to reapply at some point in the day if you really need it. Gatsby carries small, pocket sized wax containers that you can carry in your jacket pocket or briefcase for those days your hair can’t quite make it to the finish line.

I tried using wax, defining paste, mousse and hair spray. They look good right after styling for like 10minutes or so and after that the front starts to get flat and the hair at the side(the side where the hair is like falling down. for that pic, its the viewers right side) starts curving down. For mousse I even try putting on damp hair and blowdrying. Doesn’t work well either. I tried wax and hairspray too and it doesnt hold for long either.

Which product do you think is suitable for me considering I have really soft and fine straight hair and sporting that hairstyle.

Have you tried combing and using just hair spray? If your hair is extremely soft and fine, you may not want to weigh it down with heavy products like mousse or wax. Try using a blow dry and comb to get your desired style and give it a spray of a strong-hold hair spray to keep that style in place.

My hair is very very thin (fine, I would say) and thinning on the front but not on the sides and back. I have temple recession and the hair in between my temples is thinning. I would like to know what kind of products (shampoos and styling) should I use in order style my hair so as to hide my temple recession and look like i have a denser hair.

Ah, thinning temples. Not everyone is gifted with a Brad Pitt hair line of 14yrs old. Just be glad that you don’t have as bad luck as this british gent whose barber raised his hairline by a few inches! There are plenty of volumizing products for both shampoos and styling products (one example being the one we recommend in the post), but another way you can compensate for receding temples is to change up your hair style to cover that one or both areas. A quick search on Google images will turn up tons of men’s hair styles that can cover up a bad receding hair line. Hope that helps!

Depending on the product and finish you’re going for, you can apply the product before or after. If you’re after a more natural look, you can blow dry your hair, apply product, then finish it off with a final blow dry to dry out some of the product and give it more of a no-product/just-got-out-of-bed-and-look-this-sexy look.

Great site! I am Indian with VERY thick black hair. I am trying to go for the Patrick Dempsey hairstyle but unfortunately my hair poofs up on top after drying. I do not shampoo every day but I use Garnier Fructisse Sleek & Shine Conditioner every day. Also, I use John Freida’s Frizz-Ease and American Crew pomade but the poof always shows up after my hair drys (naturally, no blow drying). I am thinking about trying Groom & Clean or a styling cream and a hairspray afterwards. Any suggestions? Also what should I tell the stylist when going in for a cut? I think I need to grow it out a bit more because it is only about an inch on the sides and back and no more than 2 inches on top (last time the barber actually thinned out the top which seems to help a bit).

Thanks Raj. One of the best tips for achieving a very specific look is taking photos of the style you’re going for (in this case, Patrick Dempsey’s hair style) and showing it to your barber before your cut. As for your poof dilemma, try a strong, ionic blowdryer such as Vidal Sassoon’s VS547 Blow Dryer. Use a brush while you dry and it’ll help to smoothen out those poofs. Another option is to use a heavier, wet pomade to keep the hair together longer. Give both a try and let us know how it works out for you!

Hi I have mexican thick hair that is kind of poofy but sticks straight up when nothing is applied to it. I would like to give it a more messy/wavy/curly look. What product would you recommend to give me that look?

Go for a matte product for that messy look while giving your do a more natural style. Sebastian’s Craft Clay may fit the bill. One thing to remember, however, is that you unless your hair is naturally wavy or curly, no styling product is going to significantly change straight hair to look wavy/curly.

hey…i need ur advice i have a thick coarse hair i usually do my hair like zayn malik but it keeps going out of shape i am using gatsby moving rubber wax i need a new hair product i was thinking to buy hairbond moulder…i need a product so that my will stay like zayn malik’s for whole day…can u suggest me a product that i can in my place Malaysia…i am an indian

Hey I have no idea what shampoo and conditioner to use for my hair? Any advice? I have thick hair. And I have one more question i always stlye my hair the “comb over” but i have no idea what to use. i use murrays pomade but its oily and it doesn’t hold up what would you recommend.

Jeff, Tresemme makes some great value/quality shampoos and conditioners that you can find at almost any supermarket or drugstore. As for your styling product, we like to recommend Imperial Barber’s Classic Pomade if you’re looking for a wet, combover look with a hefty hold. Give it a try and let us know how it works out for you!

unfortunately the strategy didn’t work I guess im probably gonna have to make my hair in front all the same length. what would you recommend for hair like undercut? gear 1/2 on sides ( no fade ) and leave top but length on front?

I think i’ve found solution for my hairstyle. At the moment this is what my hair is like when its down: http://i.huffpost.com/gen/1077180/thumbs/o-JUSTIN-BIEBER-HAIR-570.jpg?6 and the long part of my hair is front and when im styling for the undercut like this: http://24.media.tumblr.com/7f1b45af7bf9488f7a9e7972c833d494/tumblr_mz5dqrOJNz1rmdzf9o1_1280.jpg
it never work as the long part of my hair on one side is really long and it messes my hair up which makes it split in the middle so what i think is that i should style it the opposite way so: my hair when its down the long length is on right which means when im styling it like disconnected undercut i should make sure my hair is facing left. what do you think about that? im gonna try and have a go.
Also the products i use atm are highstreet products they are: VO5 Matte Clay ,Matt and Messy L’oreal Sea Salt Spray and V05 Hairspray water-resistant the hairspray imo is really bad.

thanks but thats not the type of hairstyle im looking for, im looking for like new daniel alfonso’s hairstyle if you look at his: New Men’s Hair Product – Hanz de Fuko Claymation – Haircut & Style , his hair is amazing. and i also think the problem is that i have longer hair length on top on my right side + what do you think about Hanz de fuko claymation?

Hey nice write up! A question I have though is regarding my hair and what product to use. My hairstyle is a combover with a side part but I like having my combover fairly shorter than other peoples, maybe about 2 1/2 to 3 inches on top. My hair is pretty thin and straight nd somewhat frizzy. I’ve used gels but it never held my hair in place. I’ve used waxes like moving rubber by Gatsby which held my hair but I didn’t like how it clumped my hair and felt sticky. I’ve been wanting to try pomade either layrite or the suavciete one (sorry I don’t know exactly what its called). What do you think about using pomade and also which ones would you recommend? Thanks black lapel!

Pomade is a fine choice for your hair type and the combover style you’re going for. If you’re going for hold strength, we recommend Imperial Barber’s Classic Pomade which is one of the strongest pomades we’ve tried.

hey for undercut my hair keeps on parting away/splitting in the middle and when i style my hair do i have to style it the opposite way because my hair always turns right so when im styling should i style it to the left? + everytime after an hour or so..my hair starts to split different way from the middle which really annoys me i want to keep my hair as it was when i styled it and this is the hairstyle im doing atm. http://damiandazz.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/men-undercut-long-hair.jpg?w=620

Sandesh, seems like you’ve been struggling with that one style for quite some time now! 😉 Check out this video tutorial from Daniel Alfonso. The stylist pretty much pins it down from the blow drying technique to the product. Give it a watch and let us know how that works for you!

Great post this is. I have wavy hair and I keep it fairly short. I like to apply some gel and then brush it with a comb for a neat look. Only thing is 1 or 2 weeks after a haircut my hair grows and gel doesn’t keep it straight.
What is the best product to use that will keep hair looking straight, but also allow me to fix during the day without losing the style, I can’t do this with gel.

Chad, it sounds like you have naturally wavy hair. The longer your hair gets, the tougher it will be to keep it straight. If you really want a more permanent solution, look into getting a keratin straightening treatment at your nearest salon. If that seems like a bit too much for you, go for an ultra-hold wax such as Gatsby’s Moving Rubber Wax.

Hi BP, I’ve been recommended a Pomade called Uppercut Deluxe by a friend, I’m really impressed with it.
It gives me the hold I am after and my hair doesn’t start to curl towards the end of the day like it did with gel.
Really impressed by this product and allows me to have different styles by using it on damp hair vs dry hair.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone with my kind of hair with strong hold all day.
Cheers
Chad

Hi black label great article I’m looking for help. I have long thin black hair and I’m going for a haircut soon I am aiming for something near Beckham’s faux hawk look but preferably with a product that kept it soft and flexible and pleasant to touch rather than solid and feeling like plastic (bryllcream ultimate hold gel) I want to stay in shape but allow my girlfriend to play with it at the same time

Thank you, that was a good article. My hair is very thin, I used to style my hair with Gels, but gel makes my hair looks more thin by exposing too much of my scalp, now i am tired with Gels, I won’t use them again. I see many products and read many reviews about volumizing hair products, but I don’t know which one I go for, I am confused. Please, can you tell me some good volumizing products to style my hair, the ones that make the hair looks thick and give it extra boost ?

A lot of us have a love-hate relationship w/ Gel. Gel has the tendency to clump hair together, expose the scalp and make you look like a character out of Jersey Shore. Not all gels are created equal, of course, but if you’re going for volume and a more natural look that’ll conceal your scalp, a mousse product like KMS California Add Volume Styling Foam should do the trick. Hope that helps!

Thanks but can you please tell me any products that i can buy at UK only please for undercut hairstyle please. and even when i use hairspray my hair still flattens down and separates in the middle in couple of hours.

Sandesh, check out Trevor Sorbie Hair Clay. If you want hair that won’t budge even in a hurricane, this is the hair-holding product for you. You should be able to get it on their website, trevorsorbie.com.

but after a while my hair just flattens down and in the middle it starts to separate different ways. really annoys me please tell me what wax & hairspray to use. I also use L’Oreal Matt and messy salt spray

Footballers used to know how to keep their hair permanently in place. Take Paul Breitner, for instance. These days they use other methods…Try Gatsby’s Technical Wax coupled with KMS Dry Xtreme Hair Spray.

Hi , i have a very oily hair and having a side swept fringe hairstyle, what kind of wax do you reccommend? Have tried gatsby wild shake but still feels abit too oily. Upon applying wasnt that bad, but after a few hours it starts to turn very greasy.

Hey Joel, give Spice Freeze Wax a try. It’s very comparable in terms of hold to Gatsby’s Moving Rubber Wax, but will be a bit lighter in terms of oiliness. The greasiness may also be a sign that you’re using too much of the wax. Try using less wax and integrating a solid hold hair spray instead.

So you have a lot of products that you have offered as solutions, and because I have read through the list of products and comments on this page and not hit a hair copy cat I decided to write a comment about my hair in more detail. I have a thinner scalp, while my hair is curly/wavy as the length of hair progresses, whilst being quite oily as the day progresses as well. Maybe it’s a mixture of the oiliness and curly/waviness that destroy the styles that I try to do by the days end so I am now at a bit of a loss on what to try. I use a two in one shampoo/conditioner and switch between evelyn charles defining paste and joico spiker with a got 2 b freeze spray. I tend to like faux hawkish hair styles or a messy controlled look without it frizzing out and the curls winning over. Any product or routine suggestions I might change to see a difference?

Hey Joshua, thanks for taking the time to read through the comments first. Try using a shampoo w/ keratin. Keratin is a protein that occurs naturally in the body, not only in hair, but also in skin and nails. The Keratin protein is responsible for the essential three layers that make up hair strands, that, when damaged result in the frizzing that you described. Adding Keratin via a shampoo or treatment will coat the cuticle (the outermost layer) resulting in a sleeker hair that’s less prone to frizzing.

Try Baxter’s Soft Water Pomade for a wet look or their clay pomade for a more matte finish. Frizzy hair tends to be a result of a lack of moisture in your hair so adding a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to your daily hair care routine should help smoothen out your hair a bit. Hope that helps!

Hey guys, I currently am rocking shoulder length thin straight hair(awesome I know), am thinking of cutting it down medium length on top with maybe just above the ears on sides and short at back…What products would be best used to give it a styled look, when it drys there is no life in it at all…Cheers

Is using the following products for men with thick hair suitable: American Crew Daily moisturizing shampoo, American Crew Men Citrus Mint Cooling Conditioner ,American Crew Classic Wax or American Crew Fiber?

Alex, do you work for American Crew? 😉 Sounds like a fine lineup. As for the wax or fiber, the American Crew Wax might have a little more shine than the Fiber so it’s really up to your personal preference.

Hi I have straight hair and currently use lynx cream gel and want something different but similar. I want it to look natural and dry but hold in place. I only put my fringe up and to one side but have a cows lick on the other side. Which always tries to go the other way especially when the wind hits it?

Hey James, the model you’re referring to (Jonathan), has naturally wavy hair. Try using a round brush and applying head with a blow dryer to give your hair a bit of that waviness. As for a product, use a volumizing mousse to give it that flexible, natural-looking hold.

I am 15 years old. I’m 1/4 Korean, 1/4 Vietnamese, 1/4 Chinese and the rest is broken up into thirds part Australian, part Samoan and part Latvian. I have fine hair and I would like to wear it like Bob Marley (not in the later days of his life when he achieved crossover fame, but when he was still and unknown youth singing ska in the slums of Kingston. At that point his hair was somewhere between an afro and dreadlocks). Also, I am considering dyeing it. Please list, in order from lowest to highest price, the hair products I should get to achieve this look. Then reshuffle the list in order of how I should apply each hair product in the morning. Please be sure the list is no shorter than 12 products but no longer than 13.

By the way, keep up the good work. I’m a really big fan of The Compost.

Hi, I have a question I have very straight fine Asian hair, My hair length for my bangs is now sitting below my eyes. How do I achieve the David Beckham look? With the big volume or big quiff styled back? What product do I use? And also what steps do I take to achieve it? (as in blow-dry, or other products)? Thanks so much! I would also like a product thats natural looking but with shine at the same time.

Hey Jay, check out this youtube tutorial on recreating that Pompadour style popularized by Beckham. TheGentlemansCove does an excellent job of walking you through each step and even including the specific styling product to use.

Hi again! Awhile back instead of gel or even mousse, you recommended as a better option for my fine, thinning on top, oily hair a lightweight water based pomade such as Redken Polish Up. Just wanted to report back that for the first time ever I had a new stylist I went to this wk also recommend pomade over gel for my hair. She used Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Grooming Pomade and I bought a jar. I like the tea tree scent better than the Redken for Men line. Water is the first ingredient in the tea tree one so does this mean it’s water based too and similar to Polish Up even though the tea tree also contains castor oil? If you say it’s comparable to Redken’s, my new stylist might be a keeper!

Yep, it sounds like the Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Grooming Pomade is a lightweight water-based pomade. Most popular water-based pomades such as Redken for Men Polish Up and Baxter’s Soft Water Pomade include Castor oil as one of its ingredients. Sounds like your stylist is a keeper!

Hey! I have pretty thick, kinda wavy hair i suppose. Im rocking a normal fade, medium length on top. Just trying to get my hair to pull up in the front and kind of fall to the side on the top. I like the shiny gentleman look, but also need strength. any recommendations?

Go with Imperial Barber’s Classic Pomade. It’ll give you that shine and strength. If the pomade isn’t enough to hold your hair, you can also go with a gel (see gel section of post) to hold up just the front part of your hair.

Hi there! I have very soft, fine, straight hair and a it’s little oily. I tried different hair products to style and side-comb my hair and I can’t make it stay? what kind of product should I use to give my hair more volume and make it stay?

Zalen, blow dry your hair then try a mousse product like Keratin Complex Styling Foam to add that extra volume while holding the style in place. You can also finish it with a little hair spray if you’re still lacking in the hold department.

hi! I have a thin and straight hair , but a very thick one , it’s medium long and I want to style it like David Beckham , I want it to be soft but also to shine and to be molded easily..what shoud I use ? Thanks

Thanks for the advice, I’m from Romania and here the only product i find is American Crew Pomade, do you think this can help make my hair softer but also modelable? My hair is more more thicker than David’s that’s why i need a hair product that will make it softer and
easyer to mold. Thanks again!

Hy. I have thick and wavy hair. What should I use? Also how often should I use shampoo and conditioner? How can you wash wax out of hair? I know that you can’t use shampoo everyday but it seems the only way that I can wash wax out of hair.

I’m currently growing my hair out (hoping to go for around shoulder length eventually) and I’ve currently reached what I think would be the awkward stage. My hair is quite thick, and I have a wave/curl on my fringe which is impossible to style. Once I’m outside in the windy weather it gets much worse and my hair just looks like a mess.

It looks like your hair is naturally curly/wavy. It’s extremely difficult to straighten and hold hair like that with just a styling product. You can flatiron your hair which may be too much of a chore, or opt for a keratin treatment at your local salon to straighten your hair for a good 3-6 months so you don’t have to worry about straightening it every time you style your hair. Both these options may be above-and-beyond for the average gent looking for a quick style, so it really comes down to how badly you want your hair straight. If the answer is not so badly that you’d go the extent of the aforementioned treatments, we’d say go for the ladder style you linked which should be achievable with a little mousse (see the mousse section of the post) and blow drying.

Hey, great website.
I have a problem with styling my hair, it is very thick/coarse black hair that curls a bit (wavy hair?) and i have used so many products to tame and style it but they cant seem to keep hairstyle locked and my hair poofs up. I’m after a wet look, slicked to the side hair (1-1.5inch on top) with a side parting. Im from the uk and wondering if you could recommend a suitable product?

Thanks Tony! Blow dry your hair first with a comb to straighten our your wavy hair as best as you can then style it with a strong pomade such as Murray’s or Imperial Barber’s Classic Pomade to give it that wet, side-slicked look that Don Draper would be proud of. Report back to us if it doesn’t work out!

Terry, You give us way too much credit if you think we can guess what hair product Tom Hardy uses in that pic! 😉 That said, if we had to guess, we’d say it’s a water-based pomade such as the ones we mention in the post/comment above.

Wow, I see you’re very helpful here, so I thought, I’d also ask for some advice.

I have normal straight hair, mid length at the moment, and I’m growing it, and it’s getting more and more difficult to make it look good. Also the hair products I’ve been using seem no longer to be useful. They can’t hold my hair anymore. I’ve been experimenting with some other hair products recetly, but they were nothing but a waste of money. Now I’ve bought so many poor ones, I became very cautious and hesitant about what to buy.

Most of these hair products I’ve used were ones that are available in supermarkets and drugstores. Taft paste, Syoss volume powder, Garnier Fructis Style wax and other common products here in Hungary. I haven’t even heard about most of these products you’ve listed.

So, finally, my question: Which product would you recommend for my normal, straight, growing hair that would hold my hair as I want it. Besides, I’m quite particular about it to look natural. I hate the shiny, wet, greasy-like looks. Therefore something matte, very strong would work I suppose.

Dave, we’re glad we can help. When it comes to hair products, it usually paying the extra $10 bucks or so for the premium stuff as it does in fact show in the quality. For a more natural look, try Imperial Barber’s Matte Pomade Paste for that more natural, matte look you’re going for. If you want a little more hold, I’d step it up to a stronger wax product such as Gatsby’s Technical Wax or Moving Rubber line. Hope those save you some money in the long run!

Try a stronger holding, but lightweight product such as Spice Freeze Wax. It’ll hold up your hair without weighing down your hair with heavy product like some products. If you don’t mind a hard/shiny style, gel might another option for you.

Rocco, check out Gatsby’s Moving Rubber line. They have a wide range of different waxes that should work for thick wavy hair, depending on the style and level of hold you’re going for. You can refer to their product chart to see which one is right for you.

Trying to go for David Beckham’s current style however I can’t get that hold, any recommendations? Don’t want to use too much to be able to get hold that it looks like someone’s done a ‘something about mary’ to my hair… Thanks. I think it’s worth adding that I have dead straight and very thick hair…

My hair is a bit of a mess. It’s kind of like a mop and I’d like it cut like Lucas Piazon (Google him!). My hair is very thick and oily. Would a matte product be most suitable? if so, which one? Additionally, how often should I wash my hair with shampoo, bearing in mind it’s extremely oily? Sorry about all the questions, one final one though, what is the name of the hairstyle of Lucas Piazon? I can’t quite nail it specifically

Sam, sounds like you’re going for a more natural, light-product look. Give Sebastian’s Craft Clay a try. It’ll give you enough hold and pliability without the greasiness. As for the style, one of the best ways to get your barber or stylist to replicate it for you is to bring the photo example of the exact look you’re going for. Hope that helps!

Hi, thanks again for taking the time to do this. I have very thin straight hair, and I was looking for a product that wont weigh my hair down because that tends to happen from time to time with the matrix beach clay I use and also something that would have a decent hold. I want something with the versatility to do a fohawk or a comb over even. So what would you recommend in my case? Also is it true that people with thin hair should not shampoo everyday because it can lead to further hair loss. Thanks again!

Hey Nikhil, if you’re looking for a lighter product w/ a solid hold, try a styling cream. A cream like Redken for Men Get Groomed will allow you to create a fohawk or a combover without weighing your hair down like a heavy wax or pomade.

I have very thick hair and started growing it out when it was about 1 inch long. That was about 3 months ago and my hair is about 3 inches in most spots, I’m going for the look of Charlie Hunnam on Sons of Anarchy, the simple slicked back look, I believe I just need to be patient and let it get longer to get to that style. As of right now I use lock stock and barrel clay and its the only thing that keeps my hair back, and my front hair seems to be growing much slower than everywhere else, just looking for some advice!

If you’re looking for a straighter style, you may want to try something with a stronger hold like a wax (e.g. Gatsby’s Moving Rubber Wax). Most Pomades tend to be too soft to straighten out and hold wavy hair types.

Hi!
I have thick, straight asian hair (meaning it can only be swept one way) and I usually use a strong wax. My problem is I’m getting tired of the feel of it and I’m starting to like the idea of mousse. Would this be ok for my thick hair? If not what products eould you suggest for a dry, light and matte look. I usually have my fringe up in a upward sweep if this helps.
Thanks!

Hey, Nice article, one of the best available on the topic. Coming to my problem, I have thin hair and I have a double crown which combined with my thin hair makes me look bald. My hair lack fullness and in entirety I look bald. What product should I use to make my hair look fuller and thicker? I think I should go for the Don Draper look.

Here are some quick tips on getting that extra fullness: 1. Do not wash your hair too often. You’ll benefit by getting fuller looking hair at the roots. 2. When you do wash, use a invigorating shampoo that’ll help perk up the hairs follicles at the root. 3. Blow dry. Blow drying will help add volume to flat, wet hair and give your hair a fuller look. 4. Try a thickening / volumizing hair spray. 5. Suit up to the nines.

I want to know what gel I could use on thick hair that’s in between short and medium length that gives a nice matte finish and will hold my hair up all day. I’d like to know specifically what hair product(s) I should use to do so. Right now I’m using Light Elements – Defining Whip by Aveda but it’s weighing my hair down like crazy. (I’m a male)

For a matte look, we’d recommend a matte wax product such as TIGI Bed Head Matte Separation Work Wax. It should work well with your hair length and provide a strong, pliable hold throughout the day. Hope that helps Thomas!

Hey guys! I found this website super useful, and I thank you for that! But may I get some suggestions as to what products to use in order to achieve a sort of nice comb over? I have a nasty cowlick and id like to be able to part my hair and cover it. My hair is thin and straight and also extremely stubborn… It weighs down easily and when I put american crew forming cream in it the look never stays! Please help with some suggestions, thank you!!

I’ve enjoyed many of your articles, thank you for the great advice and wealth of information. Reading the article, I wasn’t sure which category my hair fit into, so I thought I might see about more personalized advice. I’ve recently started cutting my hair at a ‘4’ on the sides and back, and scissor cutting to about ~1-1.5 inch on top (my hair is medium in width and short in length). I’d like to style my hair forward, with either a wet or natural finish, but I’m not sure what type of product I should use, or look for. I’m not so much looking to style my hair to the side, or make it spiky, I’d just like to keep my hair style in a manner that it doesn’t seem to ‘poof up’ and become a fuzzball after it dries (I would akin the ‘style’ I am going for as how your hair looks when it’s wet/damp and you simply run your fingers through it). Any recommendations? and thank you for your time.

Scott, try Sebastian’s Craft Clay. It’ll give you more of a natural look, especially if you’re simply try to tame your hair. It’s lightweight, flexible and it’ll still help manage your hair without looking like you spent days on it.

Question, I am a younger man, and I have never grown my hair out. I am looking to style it (at some point) like Tom Cruise from The Last Samurai. What are some things I need to do to prepare it for then, and in the meantime, what styling tips can you recommend and products to help the process along?

Hey,
That is a bunch of cool data.
I am heaving curly hair in the front, which makes a Maggie up in the front and makes my hair look messy. I am trying to get them longer from a few months now, but these front hair really piss me off at times.
By the way, I live in India. Please recommend a style I should use, as I am a bit confused. And if you could recommend a product?

Abhay, You may want to consider a Keratin treatment to straighten the front hair to make your life easier when it comes to styling. It’s offered at most unisex salons and the straightened effect lasts around a few months.

I have an undercut hairstyle but it’s not always perfect. Every time i play football for a bit the hair flats down and i really need help to make it stand up for the whole day even when im playing football.( I also Sweat)
I ALSO USE HAIRSPRAY :'(

Hi Black Lapel,
I have thick, straight hair which I have at about mouth length at the front – I am currently slicking back, number 2 length sides and a strong part to one side. I have been using Sweet Georgia Brown (blue tin) but I am finding it is a bit too waxy and won’t hold my hair for long enough.

What other products can you recommend? I have a fair bit of hair to pull back (and as i said, number 2 on sides and back – think Marco Reus from Borussia Dortmund, but longer).

Glad someone appreciates the work we put into these responses! 😉 Try a stronger wax product that does well well with shorter-to-medium thick hair such as Spice Freeze Wax or Gatsby’s Technical Wax or Moving Rubber Wax. Then give your front hair a spray of hair spray–any of the ones we recommend will do–for that added hold. Try it and let us know how it fares!

I have very thick, coarse, short hair that is pretty hard to manage in the mornings. I’m looking for some sort of a short fauxhawk, but i do not want all the shine. What product do you guys recommend for a quick fix in the mornings?

First off great article for someone who kept my hair styling pretty simple I this helped educate me a lot. So I’m going to try and blow your mind and hopefully don’t confuse you. I’m African American and have very curly hair that is thick. I have used gels in the past (the bottom shelf stuff Dep, La Bella, and currently using an olive oil gel) I don’t like how it dries my scalp out and people always want to touch my hair but with it feeling like rock candy I try to avoid it. I wear my hair about medium length and either curl or I part it and have a curly, slick version of the mad men style. I’m not a fan of Murray’s because I don’t wear my hair short. From what I’ve read it seems I should try American crew pomade or Baxter pomade maybe even a stylin cream. I just want some help on products that allow me to wear the hair styles I want without the drying out or super hard hair that will give me some the natural shine and wet that doesn’t have me looking like I out crisco in my hair.

I wanted to finally add that none of these websites mentioned anything about pomades or waxes that you’ve strongly suggested on other people comments that have similar hair like mine (straight, fine/thinning hair on top with receding hairline). Care to elaborate?

Dave, we’d go with a cream or mouse/styling foam product with plenty of blow drying with your fingers to after applying the product to create that matte, natural look. In this case, we recommend KMS California Add Volume Styling Foam for that added volume boost.

I have very thick straight hair that is mostly gray and coarse on the sides, over my ears. I’ve been wearing it short because when the hair over my ears (up to about two inches above ears) grows straight out and will not lay down, no matter which products I’ve used so far. I look much better with meduim length hair but need something to get the hair over my ears to lay down, otherwise it looks like a puff ball. The products I’ve tried so far only work for a short time, and then the the gray hair pops straight out again. So I need a heavy product on the sides and then I usually use Gel Whip on the top which works well. Thanks in advance!

I tried some Axe waxe that was supposed to give a smooth look without hardening my hair but that wax is so awful it’s impossible to get it on my dry or wet hair, it is so sticky it doesn’t even go on to my hair.

Anyway, as I don’t have access to nice quality products in where I live, I’m going to order from amazon or another site that ships internationally. Since that’s a long process, I want to be able to pick the right product or as I’ve learned just one product is often not enough to give volume and shape products.

For an undercut style like that you probably don’t want a lot of product, just enough to create a textured look and keep your hair in place. Try styling it with a blow dryer and use a hair spray such as TIGI Bed Head Men Power Surge Spray. This will prevent your hair from being weighed down and losing that volume while maintaining the hold you’re looking for.

I have very short, thin hair and slightly balding “Sting” shaped hair. I find that when I grow the top a bit longer and keep the sides shorter it looks good (I suppose that 1930’s/40’s look is the best way to describe it).

What I need is a product that would keep my hair firm and in place, but no matter what I buy does not seem to work. For a day or two it seems probable, but then just seems to lose its purpose. It either goes flat, oily, brittle and wavy or the product seems to just lie on top of the hair. I have found that Redken’s Manuevering Wax works nice, but it lacks the hold. Then someone advised to use the Redken Work Hard. So I tried that and it just went flat and greasy and thinner.

My hair isn’t that thin and I can hardly say that I am bald, it’s just my temples that are high, so I kind of believe that there must be a product out there for me!

So to conclude, I want to have a firm strong hold that will work for thin, fine hair. It does not matter to me, whether the look is matt or shine. Please help! All comments will be very much appreciated!

Please help me i’ve always wanted to try and get this type of hairstyle but fail. i use Got2b texture mould at the momenth it works but later on the day the hair just gets ruined is the anyway i can keep my hair the same from the morning till end of the day? i also use Tresume Style and Hold hairspray.
This is the type of hair im trying to get: http://www.mens-hairstyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Men-undercut-long-hair.jpg

Hey Sandesh, this is a problem that many guys have. There is no perfect solution to this as oil that accumulates over the day will undoubtedly have its toll. That said, one way to add to that longevity is to do a mid-day touch-up with your Got2b product and perhaps even add a second spray of that Tresemme hairspray. This isn’t the most convenient solution, but it’s the next best thing to keeping that morning masterpiece together!

Can you advise me on products that can hold hair into place throughout the day. I am using Redken Paste at present but this doesn’t give it the hold I need. Which means I use a lot of Hairspray which results in the hair sticking in one place but a nightmare to get out of your hair. I currently use men’s GHD straighteners so do you think I need to use a product before straitening were at present all I use is heat defence to stop the straighteners damaging my hair. Would appreciate your help.

If you’re looking for a step up, try a high hold wax product such as S Factor Creamy Molding Wax if you’re looking for hold with shine or TIGI Bed Head Men Matte Separation Work Wax if you’re looking for a matte finish. As for your question on hair straighteners, have you considered keratin straightening treatment at the salon? A proper treatment will keep your hair straighter for a good 4-6 months and save you all the time/potential damage of straightening each day with a straightener.

Looks like you have very thin wavy hair. We’d recommend pomade product for your hair type. Imperial Barber has a wide range of pomades that go from matte to wet depending on the finish you’re going for. Hope that helps!

Hey Halder, we can’t speak on Dax Beeswax, but from what we’ve heard, it’s going to be on the greasier side. If you’re looking for some solid waxes, we also recommend Redken for Men Maneuver Working Wax or Bumble & Bumble Styling Wax.

I have quite thick hair and am currently using a glue type hair product. Ive let my hair grow and am after a style like Charlie Hunnam/Michael Pitt. What product would be best to get that hairstyle but not let the hair go hard (like my current product)?

Curtis, it sounds like you’re going for a more natural, softer style. Try one of the matte products we recommend in the article such as Sebastian’s Craft Clay. If you’re going for a bit more of a wetter look, a pomade will be a step down in the hold department, but a step up in the shine and flexibility depts.

I have relatively short hair but am trying to grow it out. I am at the “awkward” stage where my hair is always standing up. I need a way to make my hair more compact and dry. I really love when my hair is dry and all together. Therefore, my hair only looks good at the end of the day. How do I achieve this look in the morning???

hi, my hairs quite think and abit wavey at the front and im wondering what product i could use my hair is similar to denis learys style. iv been using putty but the longer it gets the less hold it gives me!
thanks for any suggestions you can give!

What would you reccomend for Asian hair? I need something thatI can use to have my hair either up or down. I currently use American Crew Forming Cream, and I’m considering some sort of putty. What do you reccomend?

my boyfriend has incredibly thick, straight, soft hair. he wants a messy, sort of spiked-up pretty boy look hair, but he hates gel. he’s tried waxes, clays, muds, pomades, gels, hairsprays, everything. but he keeps whining that it’s not doing what he wants it to do. he hates the wet look and hardness of gel, even though those glue-types get him where he needs to be. we live in florida where the humidity is at 80% or higher every day, so by the middle of the day, his hair has fallen and he turns into a girl about it. what would be the best product for him to use?

Hahah! He’s obviously serious about his hair style. Maybe he’s just extra concerned about impressing a certain someone. 😉 Sounds like he’s looking for a matte finish product that can hold throughout the day. Try Gatsby’s Moving Rubber Wax. It’s a Japanese product that’s famous for its hold while maintaining that matte look unlike gel. Let us know how he likes it!

Hey BlackLapel thanks for the reply, by the way everytime i do undercut hairstyle the crown sometimes sticks up anything i can do to fix it? and is any hairspray good enough to hold got2b or does it have to be got2b freeze spray?

Hey Black Lapel, I really need your help as i don’t know what’s the best product to use for undercut hairstyle as well as that i want a product that can hold for long time right now i use Got2b texture it works perfectly but the bad sides is that later on hair turns weird as well as that i would like a product that makes your hair still perfect even at windy times.